Neuralgia of the lower radicular group
The VA rates Neuralgia of the lower radicular group under Diagnostic Code 8712 on the scale for DC 8512, with conditional limits and separate ratings for the dominant and non-dominant arm. The applicable level depends on the full criteria below and the evidence for the condition.
Rating schedule · DC 8712 at a glance
- Rated on
- DC 8512 scale
- CFR section
- § 4.124a
- Body system
- Neurological Conditions
- Secondary conditions
- 0
Lower radicular group
Where this code is published
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Neuralgia of the lower radicular group?
DC 8712 38 CFR § 4.124a
Rated on the scale for DC 8512 (Lower radicular group)
Each ceiling below is quoted from the regulation, with the DC 8512 row it points to and that row’s published percentages. Which one applies depends on the evidence.
Regulation text
Neuralgia, cranial or peripheral, characterized usually by a dull and intermittent pain, of typical distribution so as to identify the nerve, is to be rated on the same scale, with a maximum equal to moderate incomplete paralysis. See nerve involved for diagnostic code number and rating. Tic douloureux, or trifacial neuralgia, may be rated up to complete paralysis of the affected nerve.
The term “incomplete paralysis,” with this and other peripheral nerve injuries, indicates a degree of lost or impaired function substantially less than the type picture for complete paralysis given with each nerve, whether due to varied level of the nerve lesion or to partial regeneration. When the involvement is wholly sensory, the rating should be for the mild, or at most, the moderate degree. The ratings for the peripheral nerves are for unilateral involvement; when bilateral, combine with application of the bilateral factor.
Other notes printed in this table
These notes appear in the same table in 38 CFR, and their text does not name DC 8712.
- Note: 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: Not to be combined with lost motion above shoulder level.
- Note: Combined nerve injuries should be rated by reference to the major involvement, or if sufficient in extent, consider radicular group ratings.
Source: 38 CFR § 4.124a, eCFR as of .
What other neurological conditions does the VA rate?
These diagnostic codes sit next to Neuralgia of the lower radicular group in 38 CFR Part 4. The rating schedule is ordered anatomically, so neighbouring codes usually cover the same joint, organ, or system, and a claim often involves more than one of them.
- 8628Neuritis of the obturator nerve
- 8629Neuritis of the external cutaneous nerve of thigh
- 8630Neuritis of the ilio-inguinal nerve
- 8710Neuralgia of the upper radicular group (fifth and sixth cervicals)
- 8711Neuralgia of the middle radicular group
- 8713Neuralgia of all radicular groups
- 8714Neuralgia of the musculospiral nerve (radial nerve)
- 8715Neuralgia of the median nerve
- 8716Neuralgia of the ulnar nerve
- 8717Neuralgia of the musculocutaneous nerve
What to do with a Neuralgia of the lower radicular group rating
The tools, regulations and guides that pick up where the criteria above leave off.
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- VA Service Connection Evidence 101: The Three-Legged StoolFor an original claim tied to active-duty service, VA needs a current disability, an in-service event, and a link between them. Here is what each part takes.
- VA Math Explained: How Combined Disability Ratings Really WorkVA ratings do not add. Learn how 38 CFR 4.25 combines disabilities using whole-person efficiency, why 50 and 30 round to 70, and how the bilateral factor works.
Common Questions About Neuralgia of the lower radicular group VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Neuralgia of the lower radicular group?
DC 8712 is rated on the DC 8512 scale, 38 CFR § 4.124a. “Neuralgia, cranial or peripheral, characterized usually by a dull and intermittent pain, of typical distribution so as to identify the nerve, is to be rated on the same scale, with a maximum equal to moderate incomplete paralysis.” (38 CFR § 4.124): up to the “Moderate” level, dominant arm 40% maximum, non-dominant arm 30% maximum. “When the involvement is wholly sensory, the rating should be for the mild, or at most, the moderate degree.” (38 CFR § 4.124a): up to the “Moderate” level, dominant arm 40% maximum, non-dominant arm 30% maximum.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Neuralgia of the lower radicular group?
The VA rates Neuralgia of the lower radicular group under Diagnostic Code (DC) 8712, published in 38 CFR § 4.124a. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
What evidence supports a higher rating for Neuralgia of the lower radicular group?
The key evidence for Neuralgia of the lower radicular group 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 of the lower radicular group?
The C&P examiner uses a Neurological Conditions DBQ and evaluates your condition against the DC 8712 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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