---
title: "DC 5109 - Loss of use of both hands"
diagnostic_code: "5109"
body_system: "Musculoskeletal System"
cfr_section: "§ 4.71a"
canonical: "https://veteranai.co/va-rating-schedule/musculoskeletal/5109-loss-of-use-of-both-hands"
source: "https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-4.71a"
updated: "2026-07-21T19:20:20.735898Z"
---

# DC 5109 - Loss of use of both hands

Rated under § 4.71a. Body system: Musculoskeletal System.

## Rating criteria

| Rating | Criteria |
| --- | --- |
| 100% | Loss of use of both hands |

## Notes

- 1 Also entitled to special monthly compensation.

# Loss of Use of Both Hands (Diagnostic Code 5109)

## Understanding This VA Disability Rating

**Body System:** Musculoskeletal System
**Regulation:** 38 CFR § 4.71a
**Diagnostic Code:** 5109

---

### What This Condition Covers

This diagnostic code applies to the **loss of use of both hands**. It falls under the VA's evaluation of the musculoskeletal system.

Because this condition significantly affects a veteran's ability to function, it is recognized at the highest disability rating level under this code.

---

### Available Rating Level

Under Diagnostic Code 5109, there is one rating level:

| Rating | What It Reflects |
|--------|------------------|
| **100%** | Loss of use of both hands |

---

### What the VA Looks For

When evaluating a claim under this diagnostic code, the VA looks at whether there is **loss of use of both hands**. Meeting this criterion corresponds to the 100% rating level shown above.

---

### Important Note

- Veterans rated under this condition are **also entitled to special monthly compensation**.

---

*This information is provided for general educational purposes and is drawn directly from the VA rating schedule under 38 CFR § 4.71a. Individual eligibility and rating determinations are made by the VA based on the specifics of each case.*

Source: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-4.71a