Diagnostic Code 8520 · 38 CFR §4.124a
The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body, running from the lower spine through the buttock and down the back of each leg. DC 8520 covers incomplete and complete paralysis of this nerve. Veterans commonly develop sciatic nerve conditions secondary to lumbar spine injuries sustained during service. Symptoms include radiating pain down the leg, numbness, tingling, muscle weakness in the leg or foot, and difficulty walking. The VA rates this condition based on the degree of incomplete paralysis — mild, moderate, moderately severe, or severe — or complete paralysis.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | Mild incomplete paralysis of the sciatic nerve. Symptoms may include intermittent radiating pain, mild numbness or tingling in the leg, and minimal functional limitation. Reflexes and muscle strength are largely preserved. |
| 20% | Moderate incomplete paralysis. More persistent symptoms including regular radiating pain, noticeable numbness, and some measurable weakness in the affected leg. Daily activities are noticeably affected but the veteran can still perform most functions. |
| 40% | Moderately severe incomplete paralysis. Significant and frequent symptoms including substantial pain, notable muscle weakness, sensory deficits, and meaningful functional limitation. The veteran has difficulty with prolonged standing, walking, or physical activity. |
| 60% | Severe incomplete paralysis with marked muscular atrophy. Pronounced weakness, significant sensory loss, and substantial functional impairment. The foot may show evidence of muscle wasting and the veteran may require assistive devices for mobility. |
| 80% | Complete paralysis of the sciatic nerve. The foot dangles and drops, there is no active movement possible below the knee, and flexion of the knee is weakened or lost entirely. |
The VA will look for objective neurological findings on examination. This includes nerve conduction studies (NCS) and electromyography (EMG), which measure the electrical activity of the nerve and muscles. Medical records documenting radiculopathy, muscle atrophy measurements, reflex testing results, and sensory testing are all relevant. If claiming as secondary to a service-connected back condition, you need a medical opinion linking the nerve damage to the spinal condition. Treatment records showing ongoing management with medications like gabapentin or pregabalin support the chronicity and severity of the condition.
Yes. Radiculopathy of the sciatic nerve is rated separately from your lumbar spine condition. The VA recognizes that nerve damage is a distinct disability from the spinal condition causing it. Many veterans with back conditions have associated radiculopathy in one or both legs, each rated independently.
DC 8520 covers paralysis (motor and sensory loss) of the sciatic nerve. DC 8620 covers neuritis (inflammation) and DC 8720 covers neuralgia (pain) of the same nerve. Neuritis and neuralgia ratings are generally capped at the incomplete paralysis levels and cannot exceed the rating for moderate incomplete paralysis unless there is organic involvement.
An EMG is not strictly required, but it provides objective evidence of nerve dysfunction that significantly strengthens your claim. Without it, the rating relies on the clinical exam findings, which can be more subjective. If your condition warrants it, ask your doctor for a referral.