---
title: "DC 5166 - Forefoot, amputation proximal to metatarsal bones (more than one-half of metatarsal loss)"
diagnostic_code: "5166"
body_system: "Musculoskeletal System"
cfr_section: "§ 4.71a"
canonical: "https://veteranai.co/va-rating-schedule/musculoskeletal/5166-forefoot-amputation-proximal-to-metatarsal-bones-more-than"
source: "https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-4.71a"
updated: "2026-07-21T19:40:24.262389Z"
---

# DC 5166 - Forefoot, amputation proximal to metatarsal bones (more than one-half of metatarsal loss)

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

## Rating criteria

| Rating | Criteria |
| --- | --- |
| 40% | Forefoot, amputation proximal to metatarsal bones (more than one-half of metatarsal loss) |

## Notes

- 2 Also entitled to special monthly compensation.

# Forefoot Amputation (Proximal to Metatarsal Bones) — VA Diagnostic Code 5166

## Understanding This Rating

**Diagnostic Code 5166** covers **amputation of the forefoot proximal to the metatarsal bones**, meaning more than one-half of the metatarsal has been lost. This condition falls under the **Musculoskeletal System** and is rated under **38 CFR § 4.71a**.

This entry applies when a veteran has lost the forefoot at a level above the metatarsal bones, with more than half of the metatarsal affected.

## Available Rating Level

The VA rating schedule assigns a single disability level for this condition:

| Rating | Criteria |
|--------|----------|
| **40%** | Forefoot, amputation proximal to metatarsal bones (more than one-half of metatarsal loss) |

## What the VA Looks For

When evaluating this condition, the VA looks at whether the amputation occurred **proximal to the metatarsal bones**, specifically involving the loss of **more than one-half of the metatarsal**. Meeting this criteria corresponds to the **40%** rating level.

## Additional Note

This condition may also carry entitlement to **special monthly compensation** — an additional form of VA compensation recognized alongside this rating.

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*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 specific rating or outcome.*

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