---
title: "DC 5164 - Amputation not improvable by prosthesis controlled by natural knee action"
diagnostic_code: "5164"
body_system: "Musculoskeletal System"
cfr_section: "§ 4.71a"
canonical: "https://veteranai.co/va-rating-schedule/musculoskeletal/5164-amputation-not-improvable-by-prosthesis-controlled-by"
source: "https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-4.71a"
updated: "2026-07-21T19:39:35.083878Z"
---

# DC 5164 - Amputation not improvable by prosthesis controlled by natural knee action

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

## Rating criteria

| Rating | Criteria |
| --- | --- |
| 60% | Amputation not improvable by prosthesis controlled by natural knee action |

## Notes

- 2 Also entitled to special monthly compensation.

# Amputation Not Improvable by Prosthesis Controlled by Natural Knee Action

**Diagnostic Code 5164 · Musculoskeletal System · 38 CFR § 4.71a**

## Understanding This Condition

This VA rating covers a leg amputation where the residual limb cannot be improved by a prosthesis that is controlled by natural knee action. In practical terms, this refers to amputations severe enough that the natural function of the knee cannot be used to operate a prosthetic device.

Because this rating falls under the Musculoskeletal System, it is evaluated according to the standards set out in 38 CFR § 4.71a.

## Available Rating Level

The VA rating schedule provides the following level for this condition:

| Rating | Criteria |
|--------|----------|
| **60%** | Amputation not improvable by prosthesis controlled by natural knee action |

## What the VA Looks For

When evaluating a claim under Diagnostic Code 5164, the VA focuses on whether the amputation is one that cannot be improved by a prosthesis controlled by natural knee action. Meeting this criterion supports the assignment of the 60% rating shown above.

## Additional Note

An amputation rated under this code may also entitle a veteran to **special monthly compensation** (as indicated in the rating schedule notes).

---

*This information is drawn directly from the VA rating schedule under 38 CFR § 4.71a. It is provided for general educational purposes and does not guarantee any particular rating outcome.*

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