Ilio-Inguinal Nerve

DC 8530Neurological38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8530

Damage to the ilio-inguinal nerve, which provides sensation to the groin, inner thigh, and parts of the genitalia. This nerve is commonly injured during hernia repair surgery or by lower abdominal wounds. Injury causes numbness, burning, or pain in the groin and genital area. This is a sensory nerve with limited ratings and no major/minor distinction.

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 8530

Rating range

0% – 10%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8530. 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 severe incomplete or complete paralysis of the ilio-inguinal nerve — significant numbness or neuropathic pain in the groin, inner thigh, or genital area.

What the VA looks for

Significant sensory loss in the groin and inguinal region
Chronic neuropathic pain in the groin or genital area
Documented history of hernia repair or abdominal surgery in service
Impact on daily activities, clothing comfort, or sexual function documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not understanding the maximum 10% rating — the ilio-inguinal nerve is rated at 0% for mild/moderate and 10% for severe/complete. If groin pain affects your mental health or sexual function, file separate secondary claims.
⚠Not connecting the nerve injury to an in-service hernia repair — the ilio-inguinal nerve is frequently damaged during hernia surgery. If you had a hernia repair during service, document this as the cause of your nerve pain.
⚠Not documenting the impact on daily life — even though the rating is limited, chronic groin pain can affect sitting, exercise, sexual function, and sleep. This documentation supports secondary claims.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Peripheral Nerves Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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

Ilio-Inguinal Nerve

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 8530

Rating range

0% – 10%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have severe incomplete or complete paralysis of the ilio-inguinal nerve — significant numbness or neuropathic pain in the groin, inner thigh, or genital area.

What the VA looks for

Significant sensory loss in the groin and inguinal region
Chronic neuropathic pain in the groin or genital area
Documented history of hernia repair or abdominal surgery in service
Impact on daily activities, clothing comfort, or sexual function documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not understanding the maximum 10% rating — the ilio-inguinal nerve is rated at 0% for mild/moderate and 10% for severe/complete. If groin pain affects your mental health or sexual function, file separate secondary claims.

⚠Not connecting the nerve injury to an in-service hernia repair — the ilio-inguinal nerve is frequently damaged during hernia surgery. If you had a hernia repair during service, document this as the cause of your nerve pain.

⚠Not documenting the impact on daily life — even though the rating is limited, chronic groin pain can affect sitting, exercise, sexual function, and sleep. This documentation supports secondary claims.