Diagnostic Code 8516 · 38 CFR §4.124a
The ulnar nerve runs along the inner side of your arm and controls many of the small muscles in your hand that are responsible for fine movements. It also provides sensation to your ring and little fingers. When the ulnar nerve is damaged, you may develop a claw hand deformity where your ring and little fingers curl inward, lose grip strength, and have difficulty with tasks requiring precise hand movements like typing or turning keys. Veterans commonly develop ulnar nerve problems from elbow fractures, prolonged leaning on hard surfaces during field operations, blast injuries, or direct trauma to the arm or elbow area.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 60% | |
| 50% | |
| 40% | |
| 30% | |
| 20% | |
| 10% |
Medical records showing ulnar nerve damage connected to military service, Electromyography and nerve conduction study results at the elbow or wrist, Documentation of grip and pinch strength deficits, Records showing which hand is dominant, Photographs documenting any claw hand deformity if present