Neuralgia of External Popliteal (Common Peroneal) Nerve — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 8721)

The VA rates Neuralgia of External Popliteal (Common Peroneal) Nerve under Diagnostic Code 8721 at the following tiers: 0%, 10%, 20%. The minimum 0% rating requires: Neuritis or neuralgia of the external popliteal nerve without objective findings; mild, intermittent symptoms not affecting function. (Neuralgia — maximum rating is moderate incomplete paralysis per 38 CFR § 4.124). The maximum 20% rating requires: Moderate.

Diagnostic Code 8721 is the VA rating identifier for Neuralgia of External Popliteal (Common Peroneal) Nerve within 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.124. It defines the specific symptom criteria and percentage thresholds a VA adjudicator uses to assign a disability rating. The diagnostic code is listed on a veteran's rating decision letter.

The highest schedular rating for Neuralgia of External Popliteal (Common Peroneal) Nerve under DC 8721 is 20%. This tier requires: Moderate. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Neuralgia of External Popliteal (Common Peroneal) Nerve alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Neuralgia of External Popliteal (Common Peroneal) Nerve is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.124, Diagnostic Code 8721. This section is part of the Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR Part 4) and can be read in full at the eCFR website.

Secondary conditions caused or aggravated by Neuralgia of External Popliteal (Common Peroneal) Nerve may be ratable under 38 CFR § 3.310. Veterans should work with a VSO or accredited claims agent to document the medical relationship.

Service connection for Neuralgia of External Popliteal (Common Peroneal) Nerve requires three elements: (1) a current diagnosis of the condition, (2) an in-service event, injury, or disease that may have caused or aggravated it, and (3) a medical nexus connecting the current diagnosis to that in-service event. A nexus letter from a treating physician or independent medical examiner is the most reliable nexus evidence. C&P exam findings can also establish nexus if adequately documented.