VA Disability Rating for Musculocutaneous Nerve Paralysis

Diagnostic Code 8517 · 38 CFR §4.124a

What Is It?

The musculocutaneous nerve controls your biceps and brachialis muscles, which are the main muscles for bending your elbow. It also provides sensation to the outer side of your forearm. When this nerve is damaged, you have significant difficulty bending your elbow against resistance and may experience numbness along the outer forearm. Veterans may develop this condition from shoulder dislocations, upper arm fractures, stab or shrapnel wounds, or surgical complications during military service.

Rating Criteria

RatingCriteria
40%
30%
20%
10%

Evidence Needed

Medical records documenting musculocutaneous nerve injury related to service, Electromyography and nerve conduction study results, Biceps strength testing and elbow flexion measurements, Records of which arm is dominant, Documentation of sensory changes on the outer forearm

Frequently Asked Questions