Paralysis of External Popliteal (Common Peroneal) Nerve — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 8521)

The VA rates Paralysis of External Popliteal (Common Peroneal) Nerve under Diagnostic Code 8521 at the following tiers: 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.

Diagnostic Code 8521 is the VA rating identifier for Paralysis of External Popliteal (Common Peroneal) Nerve within 38 CFR 38 CFR Part 4, DC 8521. 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 Paralysis of External Popliteal (Common Peroneal) Nerve under DC 8521 is 40%. This tier 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. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Paralysis 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.

Paralysis of External Popliteal (Common Peroneal) Nerve is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR Part 4, DC 8521, Diagnostic Code 8521. 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 Paralysis 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 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 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.