Toes, other than great, amputation of, with removal of metatarsal head

The VA rates Toes, other than great, amputation of, with removal of metatarsal head under Diagnostic Code 5172 at 0%, 20%. The minimum 0% rating requires: Without metatarsal involvement. The maximum 20% rating requires: One or two.

The VA rates Toes, other than great, amputation of, with removal of metatarsal head under Diagnostic Code (DC) 5172, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.

A 0% rating requires: Without metatarsal involvement. A 20% rating requires: One or two. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.

Toes, other than great, amputation of, with removal of metatarsal head maxes at 20%, well below the single-disability TDIU threshold. However, combined with other service-connected disabilities, TDIU may be achievable under 38 CFR § 4.16. Focus on establishing secondary conditions to increase the combined rating.

The key evidence for Toes, other than great, amputation of, with removal of metatarsal head is documentation of how the condition affects daily functioning. For musculoskeletal conditions, range of motion measurements (active, passive, weight-bearing, and non-weight-bearing per Correia v. McDonald) and flare-up documentation are critical. A nexus letter from a qualified medical professional linking the current severity to service is essential for contested claims.

The C&P examiner uses a Musculoskeletal System DBQ and evaluates your condition against the DC 5172 rating criteria. Expect range of motion testing in multiple positions. Under Correia v. McDonald, the examiner must test active, passive, weight-bearing, and non-weight-bearing range of motion. Report your worst flare-up symptoms — if you cannot attend during a flare, request the exam be rescheduled.