Diagnostic Code 8510 · 38 CFR §4.124a
The upper radicular group refers to the C5 and C6 nerve roots in the brachial plexus, which is the network of nerves that controls your shoulder and upper arm. When these nerves are damaged, you lose the ability to raise your arm, bend your elbow, and rotate your forearm outward. This pattern of paralysis is sometimes called Erb-Duchenne palsy. Veterans commonly develop this from shoulder dislocations, heavy rucksack injuries, falls, blast injuries, or other trauma that stretches or tears the upper brachial plexus nerves.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 90% | |
| 70% | |
| 50% | |
| 40% | |
| 30% | |
| 20% |
Medical records showing brachial plexus injury connected to military service, Electromyography and nerve conduction study results identifying C5-C6 involvement, Documentation of which arm is your dominant hand, Range of motion measurements for the shoulder and elbow, Records of any surgical interventions or nerve repair procedures