Index, long and ring (DC 5138)

Body system: Musculoskeletal SystemRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.71a

This diagnostic code covers conditions affecting three specific fingers on your hand: the index finger (pointer finger), long finger (middle finger), and ring finger. The VA rates these finger conditions at 40% when all three fingers are significantly impaired together. This rating recognizes that losing function in these three fingers creates substantial disability since they're crucial for gripping, writing, and most hand activities.

Rating levels

  • 50% — If you've lost your index, long, and ring fingers on your dominant hand, you receive a 50% rating. On the non-dominant hand the same amputation rates at 40%. VA treats the hand you write with as your "major" (dominant) hand; the other is your "minor" (non-dominant) hand, and ratings are 10% lower because loss of function on the non-dominant side is considered less disabling.
  • 40% — If you've lost your index, long, and ring fingers on your non-dominant hand, you receive a 40% rating. On the dominant hand the same amputation rates at 50%. VA treats the hand you write with as your "major" (dominant) hand; the other is your "minor" (non-dominant) hand, and ratings are 10% lower because loss of function on the non-dominant side is considered less disabling.

Disclaimer: This tool is for informational purposes only and is not legal or medical advice. Always consult with your VSO representative or a qualified veterans benefits attorney for guidance on your specific claim.