Paralysis of the Musculospiral Nerve (Radial Nerve)

The VA rates Paralysis of the Musculospiral Nerve (Radial Nerve) under Diagnostic Code 8514 at 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%. The minimum 20% rating requires: Moderate; 30. The maximum 70% rating requires: Complete; drop of hand and fingers, wrist and fingers perpetually flexed, the thumb adducted falling within the line of the outer border of the index finger; can not extend hand at wrist, extend proximal phalanges of fingers, extend thumb, or make lateral movement of wrist; supination of hand, extension and flexion of elbow weakened, the loss of synergic motion of extensors impairs the hand grip seriously; total paralysis of the triceps occurs only as the greatest rarity; 60.

The VA rates Paralysis of the Musculospiral Nerve (Radial Nerve) under Diagnostic Code (DC) 8514, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.124a. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.

A 20% rating requires: Moderate; 30. A 70% rating requires: Complete; drop of hand and fingers, wrist and fingers perpetually flexed, the thumb adducted falling within the line of the outer border of the index finger; can not extend hand at wrist, extend proximal phalanges of fingers, extend thumb, or make lateral movement of wrist; supination of hand, extension and flexion of elbow weakened, the loss of synergic motion of extensors impairs the hand grip seriously; total paralysis of the triceps occurs only as the greatest rarity; 60. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.

Yes — a 70% rating for Paralysis of the Musculospiral Nerve (Radial Nerve) alone meets the single-disability threshold for TDIU (38 CFR § 4.16). If the condition prevents substantially gainful employment, the veteran is compensated at the 100% rate without a schedular 100% rating.

The key evidence for Paralysis of the Musculospiral Nerve (Radial Nerve) 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.

The C&P examiner uses a Neurological Conditions DBQ and evaluates your condition against the DC 8514 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.