Paralysis of the internal popliteal nerve (tibial)
The VA rates Paralysis of the internal popliteal nerve (tibial) under Diagnostic Code 8524 across 4 severity levels, from 10% to 40%. The applicable level depends on the full criteria and the evidence for the condition. These percentages are alternatives, not amounts to add together.
Rating schedule — DC 8524 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 10%
- Maximum rating
- 40%
- Rating tiers
- 4
- CFR section
- § 4.124a
- Body system
- Neurological Conditions
- Secondary conditions
- 0
Lowest schedular rating available
TDIU may raise effective compensation to 100%
10%, 20%, 30%, 40%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Paralysis of the internal popliteal nerve (tibial)?
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | Mild |
| 20% | Moderate |
| 30% | Severe |
| 40% | Complete; plantar flexion lost, frank adduction of foot impossible, flexion and separation of toes abolished; no muscle in sole can move; in lesions of the nerve high in popliteal fossa, plantar flexion of foot is lost |
“Severe”
What other neurological conditions does the VA rate?
These diagnostic codes sit next to Paralysis of the internal popliteal nerve (tibial) 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.
- 8519Paralysis of the long thoracic nerveRated up to 30%
- 8520Paralysis of the sciatic nerveRated up to 80%
- 8521Paralysis of the external popliteal nerve (common peroneal)Rated up to 40%
- 8522Paralysis of the musculocutaneous nerve (superficial peroneal)Rated up to 30%
- 8523Paralysis of the anterior tibial nerve (deep peroneal)Rated up to 30%
- 8525Paralysis of the posterior tibial nerveRated up to 30%
- 8526Paralysis of the anterior crural nerve (femoral)Rated up to 40%
- 8527Paralysis of the internal saphenous nerveRated up to 10%
- 8528Paralysis of the obturator nerveRated up to 10%
- 8529Paralysis of the external cutaneous nerve of thighRated up to 10%
Common Questions About Paralysis of the internal popliteal nerve (tibial) VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Paralysis of the internal popliteal nerve (tibial)?
The VA rates Paralysis of the internal popliteal nerve (tibial) under Diagnostic Code 8524 at 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%. The minimum 10% rating requires: Mild. The maximum 40% rating requires: Complete; plantar flexion lost, frank adduction of foot impossible, flexion and separation of toes abolished; no muscle in sole can move; in lesions of the nerve high in popliteal fossa, plantar flexion of foot is lost.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Paralysis of the internal popliteal nerve (tibial)?
The VA rates Paralysis of the internal popliteal nerve (tibial) under Diagnostic Code (DC) 8524, 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 40% rating for Paralysis of the internal popliteal nerve (tibial)?
A 10% rating requires: Mild. A 40% rating requires: Complete; plantar flexion lost, frank adduction of foot impossible, flexion and separation of toes abolished; no muscle in sole can move; in lesions of the nerve high in popliteal fossa, plantar flexion of foot is 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 the internal popliteal nerve (tibial) qualify for TDIU?
Possibly. Paralysis of the internal popliteal nerve (tibial) maxes at 40%, which doesn't meet the single-disability TDIU threshold of 60% alone. However, if combined with other service-connected disabilities totaling 70%+ (with one at 40%+), TDIU under 38 CFR § 4.16(a) may apply. Extraschedular TDIU under § 4.16(b) is also available if the condition alone prevents work regardless of rating.
What evidence supports a higher rating for Paralysis of the internal popliteal nerve (tibial)?
The key evidence for Paralysis of the internal popliteal nerve (tibial) 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 Paralysis of the internal popliteal nerve (tibial)?
The C&P examiner uses a Neurological Conditions DBQ and evaluates your condition against the DC 8524 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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