Neuralgia
The VA rates Neuralgia under Diagnostic Code 8714 across 2 severity levels, from 0% to 20%. With a cap of 20%, most veterans pursue secondary conditions to increase their combined rating.
Rating schedule — DC 8714 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 0%
- Maximum rating
- 20%
- Rating tiers
- 2
- CFR section
- § 4.124a
- Body system
- Neurological Conditions
- Secondary conditions
- 0
Lowest schedular rating available
TDIU may raise effective compensation to 100%
0%, 20%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Neuralgia?
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | Lesions involving only “dissociation of extensor communis digitorum” and “paralysis below the extensor communis digitorum,” will not exceed the moderate rating under code 8514. Note: Note: Cross-reference — see referenced criteria for rating tiers |
| 20% | Moderate; 30 (Neuralgia — maximum rating is moderate incomplete paralysis per 38 CFR § 4.124) |
“Moderate; 30 (Neuralgia — maximum rating is moderate incomplete paralysis per 38 CFR § 4.124)”
Common Questions About Neuralgia VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Neuralgia?
The VA rates Neuralgia under Diagnostic Code 8714 at 0%, 20%. The minimum 0% rating requires: Lesions involving only “dissociation of extensor communis digitorum” and “paralysis below the extensor communis digitorum,” will not exceed the moderate rating under code 8514. Note:. The maximum 20% rating requires: Moderate; 30 (Neuralgia — maximum rating is moderate incomplete paralysis per 38 CFR § 4.124).
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Neuralgia?
The VA rates Neuralgia under Diagnostic Code (DC) 8714, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.124a. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
What is the difference between a 0% and a 20% rating for Neuralgia?
A 0% rating requires: Lesions involving only “dissociation of extensor communis digitorum” and “paralysis below the extensor communis digitorum,” will not exceed the moderate rating under code 8514. Note:. A 20% rating requires: Moderate; 30 (Neuralgia — maximum rating is moderate incomplete paralysis per 38 CFR § 4.124). The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.
Can Neuralgia qualify for TDIU?
Neuralgia 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.
What evidence supports a higher rating for Neuralgia?
The key evidence for Neuralgia is documentation of how the condition affects daily functioning. For neurological conditions, nerve conduction studies, EMG results, and documentation of complete vs incomplete paralysis distinguish the rating tiers. A nexus letter from a qualified medical professional linking the current severity to service is essential for contested claims.
What happens at the C&P exam for Neuralgia?
The C&P examiner uses a Neurological Conditions DBQ and evaluates your condition against the DC 8714 rating criteria. The examiner tests reflexes, sensation, and motor function. If nerve damage is suspected, EMG or nerve conduction studies may be ordered. Distinguish between complete and incomplete paralysis — the rating difference is significant.
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