Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS/RSD)

DC 8599-8520Neurological38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8599-8520 (by analogy)

Chronic pain condition usually affecting a limb after an injury, featuring severe burning pain, swelling, skin color changes, and temperature sensitivity disproportionate to the original injury. Rated by analogy to the affected nerve.

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 8599-8520

Rating range

20% – 80%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8599-8520 (by analogy). 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 functional loss — you have total disability of the affected limb and complete dependence for activities involving the affected extremity.

What the VA looks for

Total disability of affected limb documented
Complete dependence for activities involving affected extremity
Loss of use determination by examiner
Severe trophic changes and muscle atrophy throughout limb
Inability to perform any functional task with affected limb

Common Pitfalls

⚠CRPS is often underrated — push for the highest applicable analogy code. Document all functional limitations thoroughly to support the most accurate rating.
⚠Not obtaining a three-phase bone scan or other objective evidence — while CRPS is primarily a clinical diagnosis, objective imaging strengthens the claim.
⚠Not documenting skin, temperature, and color changes during the C&P exam — ask the examiner to note these findings as they are hallmarks of CRPS.
⚠The condition can spread to other limbs — document all affected areas, as each limb may warrant a separate rating.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Peripheral Nerves Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Related Conditions

Conditions commonly associated with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS/RSD) or rated under the same body system.

Migraine Headaches

DC 8100·Neurological

Radiculopathy — Sciatic Nerve

DC 8520·Neurological

Peripheral Neuropathy — Lower Extremities

DC 8520·Neurological

Peripheral Neuropathy — Upper Extremities

DC 8515·Neurological

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

DC 8045·Neurological

Epilepsy — Grand Mal (Generalized Convulsive)

DC 8910·Neurological

Epilepsy — Petit Mal (Absence)

DC 8911·Neurological

Trigeminal Neuralgia

DC 8205·Neurological

Condition Rating Guides

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

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 8599-8520

Rating range

20% – 80%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Complete functional loss — you have total disability of the affected limb and complete dependence for activities involving the affected extremity.

What the VA looks for

Total disability of affected limb documented
Complete dependence for activities involving affected extremity
Loss of use determination by examiner
Severe trophic changes and muscle atrophy throughout limb
Inability to perform any functional task with affected limb

Common Pitfalls

⚠CRPS is often underrated — push for the highest applicable analogy code. Document all functional limitations thoroughly to support the most accurate rating.

⚠Not obtaining a three-phase bone scan or other objective evidence — while CRPS is primarily a clinical diagnosis, objective imaging strengthens the claim.

⚠Not documenting skin, temperature, and color changes during the C&P exam — ask the examiner to note these findings as they are hallmarks of CRPS.

⚠The condition can spread to other limbs — document all affected areas, as each limb may warrant a separate rating.