Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

DC 8515Neurological38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8515 — Median Nerve Paralysis

Compression of the median nerve in the wrist causing numbness, tingling, weakness, and pain in the hand. The VA rates carpal tunnel under the median nerve code. The dominant hand receives a higher rating at moderate and above levels.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on how much it affects your ability to work and carry out daily activities. The examiner will focus on the functional limitations your condition causes, not just the diagnosis itself.

Diagnostic code

DC 8515

Rating range

10% – 60%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8515 — Median Nerve Paralysis. This guide presents a plain-language summary and is not a substitute for the full regulatory text. Always consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney for case-specific advice.

Rating Levels

You have complete paralysis of the median nerve (non-dominant hand). The dominant hand is rated at 70%. The hand is inclined to the ulnar side with inability to make a fist.

What the VA looks for

Complete paralysis of median nerve
Ape hand deformity
Inability to make a fist
Severe thenar eminence atrophy
Trophic changes in skin

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting nerve conduction studies (EMG/NCS) — this is the most important objective test for carpal tunnel. Without it, the VA may rate your condition lower.
⚠Not specifying which hand is dominant — the dominant hand gets a higher rating at moderate and above levels.
⚠Not filing each wrist separately — if both wrists are affected, each is rated independently.
⚠Not connecting carpal tunnel to repetitive duties in service — typing, operating equipment, weapons handling, and manual labor can all cause or worsen carpal tunnel.
⚠Not documenting functional limitations — difficulty writing, buttoning clothes, opening jars, and typing all show how carpal tunnel affects your daily life.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Peripheral Nerves Conditions

View evidence checklist →C&P exam prep guide →See secondary conditions →

Related Conditions

Conditions commonly associated with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome or rated under the same body system.

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome (Ulnar Nerve Entrapment at Elbow)

DC 8516·Neurological·Possible secondary

Trigger Finger (Stenosing Tenosynovitis)

DC 5228·Musculoskeletal·Possible secondary

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

DC 9434·Mental Disorders·Possible secondary

Rheumatoid Arthritis

DC 5002·Musculoskeletal·Related primary

Hypothyroidism

DC 7903·Endocrine·Related primary

Migraine Headaches

DC 8100·Neurological

Radiculopathy — Sciatic Nerve

DC 8520·Neurological

Peripheral Neuropathy — Lower Extremities

DC 8520·Neurological

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 8515

Rating range

10% – 60%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have complete paralysis of the median nerve (non-dominant hand). The dominant hand is rated at 70%. The hand is inclined to the ulnar side with inability to make a fist.

What the VA looks for

Complete paralysis of median nerve
Ape hand deformity
Inability to make a fist
Severe thenar eminence atrophy
Trophic changes in skin

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting nerve conduction studies (EMG/NCS) — this is the most important objective test for carpal tunnel. Without it, the VA may rate your condition lower.

⚠Not specifying which hand is dominant — the dominant hand gets a higher rating at moderate and above levels.

⚠Not filing each wrist separately — if both wrists are affected, each is rated independently.

⚠Not connecting carpal tunnel to repetitive duties in service — typing, operating equipment, weapons handling, and manual labor can all cause or worsen carpal tunnel.

⚠Not documenting functional limitations — difficulty writing, buttoning clothes, opening jars, and typing all show how carpal tunnel affects your daily life.