Thumb, long and little
Thumb, long and little is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5136, from 50% to 60% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 60% rating requires: 50. Most claims establish the 50% or 60% rating before reaching the top tier.
Rating schedule — DC 5136 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 50%
- Maximum rating
- 60%
- Rating tiers
- 2
- CFR section
- 38 CFR § 4.71a
- Body system
- Musculoskeletal System
- Secondary conditions
- 0
Lowest schedular rating available
TDIU may raise effective compensation to 100%
50%, 60%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Thumb, long and little?
60
50
“50”
Common Questions About Thumb, long and little VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Thumb, long and little?
The VA rates Thumb, long and little under Diagnostic Code 5136 at 50%, 60%. The minimum 50% rating requires: 60. The maximum 60% rating requires: 50.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Thumb, long and little?
The VA rates Thumb, long and little under Diagnostic Code (DC) 5136, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
What is the difference between a 50% and a 60% rating for Thumb, long and little?
A 50% rating requires: 60. A 60% rating requires: 50. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.
Can Thumb, long and little qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Thumb, long and little may qualify for TDIU if the condition — alone or in combination with other service-connected disabilities — prevents substantially gainful employment. A single disability rated at 60% or higher (or multiple disabilities combining to 70%, with one at 40%) can support a TDIU claim under 38 CFR § 4.16.
What evidence do I need to establish service connection for Thumb, long and little?
Service connection for Thumb, long and little requires three elements: (1) a current diagnosis of the condition, (2) an in-service event, injury, or disease, and (3) a medical nexus linking the current diagnosis to that in-service occurrence. A nexus letter from a treating or independent medical examiner is the most reliable nexus evidence.
What is the C&P exam like for Thumb, long and little?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Thumb, long and little uses a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) specific to the body system involved. The examiner documents the frequency, severity, and functional impact of your symptoms. Bring all relevant treatment records and be prepared to describe your worst-day symptoms — the examiner rates your condition based on the full clinical picture, not a single visit.
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