Cauda Equina Syndrome

DC 8520Neurological38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8520

A serious condition where the nerve roots at the bottom of the spinal cord (cauda equina) are compressed. Causes leg weakness, saddle area numbness, and loss of bowel or bladder control. Often results from disc herniation, spinal stenosis, or trauma.

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 8520

Rating range

20% – 80%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8520. 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

Complete paralysis — your foot dangles and drops, you have no active movement below the knee, and knee flexion is weakened.

What the VA looks for

Complete foot drop bilaterally
No active movement below the knee
Complete bowel and bladder incontinence
Wheelchair-dependent
Total saddle anesthesia

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not filing separate claims for bowel dysfunction (DC 7332) and bladder dysfunction (DC 7542) — these are distinct disabilities that warrant their own ratings in addition to the neurological rating for the nerve damage.
⚠Not documenting the emergency nature and timing — cauda equina syndrome is a surgical emergency. Medical records showing the acute onset and any delays in treatment help establish the severity of residuals.
⚠Failing to connect the condition to a service-connected back injury or disc herniation — a clear medical nexus linking the cauda equina compression to military service or a service-connected condition is essential.
⚠Not reporting sexual dysfunction — cauda equina syndrome commonly causes erectile dysfunction and loss of genital sensation, which can qualify for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC-K).

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Peripheral Nerves Conditions (not including Diabetic Sensory-Motor Peripheral Neuropathy)
DBQ Back (Thoracolumbar Spine) Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 8520

Rating range

20% – 80%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Complete paralysis — your foot dangles and drops, you have no active movement below the knee, and knee flexion is weakened.

What the VA looks for

Complete foot drop bilaterally
No active movement below the knee
Complete bowel and bladder incontinence
Wheelchair-dependent
Total saddle anesthesia

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not filing separate claims for bowel dysfunction (DC 7332) and bladder dysfunction (DC 7542) — these are distinct disabilities that warrant their own ratings in addition to the neurological rating for the nerve damage.

⚠Not documenting the emergency nature and timing — cauda equina syndrome is a surgical emergency. Medical records showing the acute onset and any delays in treatment help establish the severity of residuals.

⚠Failing to connect the condition to a service-connected back injury or disc herniation — a clear medical nexus linking the cauda equina compression to military service or a service-connected condition is essential.

⚠Not reporting sexual dysfunction — cauda equina syndrome commonly causes erectile dysfunction and loss of genital sensation, which can qualify for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC-K).