Paralysis of External Popliteal (Common Peroneal) Nerve

The VA rates Paralysis of External Popliteal (Common Peroneal) Nerve under Diagnostic Code 8521 at 0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%. The minimum 0% rating requires: Neuritis or neuralgia of the external popliteal nerve without objective findings; mild, intermittent symptoms not affecting function.. The maximum 40% rating requires: Complete; foot drop and slight droop of first phalanges of all toes, cannot dorsiflex the foot, extension (dorsal flexion) of proximal phalanges of toes lost; abduction of foot lost, adduction weakened; anesthesia covers entire dorsum of foot and toes.

The VA rates Paralysis of External Popliteal (Common Peroneal) Nerve under Diagnostic Code (DC) 8521, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR Part 4, DC 8521. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.

A 0% rating requires: Neuritis or neuralgia of the external popliteal nerve without objective findings; mild, intermittent symptoms not affecting function.. A 40% rating requires: Complete; foot drop and slight droop of first phalanges of all toes, cannot dorsiflex the foot, extension (dorsal flexion) of proximal phalanges of toes lost; abduction of foot lost, adduction weakened; anesthesia covers entire dorsum of foot and toes. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.

Veterans rated for Paralysis of External Popliteal (Common Peroneal) Nerve 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.

Service connection for Paralysis of External Popliteal (Common Peroneal) Nerve 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.

A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Paralysis of External Popliteal (Common Peroneal) Nerve 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.