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5104
§ 4.71a Schedule of ratings—musculoskeletal system.

Loss of one hand and loss of use of one foot

Anatomical loss of one hand combined with loss of use of one foot.

What the rating means

Diagnostic code 5104 covers the anatomical loss of one hand combined with loss of use of one foot. There is only one rating level for this condition: 100 percent. Because there is a single rating level, VA does not need to weigh degrees of severity against one another — if you meet the criteria of having lost a hand and lost use of a foot, the regulation assigns 100 percent.

This condition also connects to special monthly compensation. The regulation states that special monthly compensation may be assigned during the 100 percent rating period from the earliest date that permanent use of crutches is established. The specific codes that apply to combinations of extremity losses — including which special monthly compensation category applies — are set out in Table II of the rating schedule, which cross-references 38 CFR 3.350.

Evidence that helps

To support a rating under this code, the evidence needs to show two things: anatomical loss of one hand and loss of use of one foot. For the hand, medical records documenting amputation or surgical removal confirm anatomical loss. Operative reports, pathology notes, and imaging can all reflect this.

For the foot, "loss of use" is a functional finding rather than an amputation. Medical records, VA examination findings, and physician statements that describe your inability to use the foot in a manner approaching normal function would be relevant. Records showing that you permanently rely on crutches are also meaningful, because the regulation specifically ties permanent crutch use to the potential assignment of special monthly compensation during the 100 percent rating period. Statements from you or people who observe you daily about how the combined loss of a hand and foot affects your mobility and activities can help show the full picture the regulation describes.

Secondary conditions

Conditions that are often caused or made worse by this one. If you have any of these, they may be claimable as secondary service connection.