Paralysis of
Paralysis of is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.124a, Diagnostic Code 8520, from 10% to 80% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 80% rating requires: Complete; the foot dangles and drops, no active movement possible of muscles below the knee, flexion of knee weakened or (very rarely) lost. Most claims establish the 10% or 20% rating before reaching the top tier.
What are the VA rating criteria for Paralysis of?
Mild
Note: Sciatic nerve paralysis is rated on degree of paralysis and which leg is involved (major/dominant vs. minor). The ratings listed apply to the major (dominant) extremity. Minor extremity ratings are one level lower. "Neuralgia" means pain in the distribution of the nerve without actual motor paralysis.
Moderate
Moderately severe
Severe, with marked muscular atrophy
Complete; the foot dangles and drops, no active movement possible of muscles below the knee, flexion of knee weakened or (very rarely) lost
Note: Complete sciatic paralysis results in a functionless leg below the knee. At 80%, the maximum rating for complete sciatic nerve paralysis in the major extremity, the veteran is typically unable to ambulate without assistive devices.
“Moderately severe”
Which conditions are commonly secondary to Paralysis of?
View 5 secondary conditions linked to Paralysis of
Medical rationale, evidence strength, and filing tips — rated under 38 CFR § 3.310
Common Questions About Paralysis of VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Paralysis of?
The VA rates Paralysis of under Diagnostic Code 8520 at 10%, 20%, 40%, 60%, 80%. The minimum 10% rating requires: Mild. The maximum 80% rating requires: Complete; the foot dangles and drops, no active movement possible of muscles below the knee, flexion of knee weakened or (very rarely) lost.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Paralysis of?
The VA rates Paralysis of under Diagnostic Code (DC) 8520, 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 10% and a 80% rating for Paralysis of?
A 10% rating requires: Mild. A 80% rating requires: Complete; the foot dangles and drops, no active movement possible of muscles below the knee, flexion of knee weakened or (very rarely) lost. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.
Can Paralysis of qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Paralysis of 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 Paralysis of?
Service connection for Paralysis of 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.
Which conditions are commonly secondary to Paralysis of?
Paralysis of is associated with 5 documented secondary conditions. Secondary conditions caused or aggravated by a service-connected disability are ratable under 38 CFR § 3.310. See the secondary conditions page for the full list with medical rationale and evidence strength ratings.
What is the C&P exam like for Paralysis of?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Paralysis of 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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VeteranHQ evaluates your symptoms against the exact 38 CFR criteria, identifies secondary conditions, and shows what evidence you need to support a higher rating.
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