Musculocutaneous Nerve Injury

DC 8517Neurological38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8517

Damage to the musculocutaneous nerve, which controls the biceps and brachialis muscles (elbow flexion) and provides sensation to the outer forearm. Injury results in weakness of elbow bending and forearm numbness. The dominant (major) arm receives a higher rating for complete paralysis.

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 8517

Rating range

10% – 20%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8517. 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 paralysis of the musculocutaneous nerve. The rating is the same for both the dominant and non-dominant arm.

What the VA looks for

Significant weakness of elbow flexion
Measurable biceps atrophy compared to opposite arm
Significant sensory loss on lateral forearm
EMG confirming severe musculocutaneous nerve involvement

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not specifying which arm is dominant — the major (dominant) arm gets a higher rating for complete paralysis (30% vs. 20% for minor).
⚠Not getting EMG and nerve conduction studies to confirm the specific nerve involved — musculocutaneous nerve injuries can be confused with upper brachial plexus injuries or C5-C6 radiculopathy.
⚠Not documenting the in-service injury — shoulder dislocations, penetrating wounds, and heavy pack straps can all damage the musculocutaneous nerve during service.
⚠Not measuring and comparing arm circumference — biceps atrophy from musculocutaneous nerve injury provides objective evidence of severity.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Peripheral Nerves Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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Musculocutaneous Nerve Injury

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 8517

Rating range

10% – 20%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have severe incomplete paralysis of the musculocutaneous nerve. The rating is the same for both the dominant and non-dominant arm.

What the VA looks for

Significant weakness of elbow flexion
Measurable biceps atrophy compared to opposite arm
Significant sensory loss on lateral forearm
EMG confirming severe musculocutaneous nerve involvement

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not specifying which arm is dominant — the major (dominant) arm gets a higher rating for complete paralysis (30% vs. 20% for minor).

⚠Not getting EMG and nerve conduction studies to confirm the specific nerve involved — musculocutaneous nerve injuries can be confused with upper brachial plexus injuries or C5-C6 radiculopathy.

⚠Not documenting the in-service injury — shoulder dislocations, penetrating wounds, and heavy pack straps can all damage the musculocutaneous nerve during service.

⚠Not measuring and comparing arm circumference — biceps atrophy from musculocutaneous nerve injury provides objective evidence of severity.