Peripheral Neuropathy — Lower Extremities

DC 8520Neurological38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8520

Nerve damage in the legs and feet causing pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness. Commonly secondary to diabetes. Each leg is rated separately.

Proposed Neurological Rating Modernization

The VA has proposed updating the rating criteria for peripheral nerve conditions (Nov 2024). Changes include modernized terminology, updated criteria for incomplete vs. complete paralysis, and revised assessment methods. This is a proposed rule and has not taken effect.

View proposed rule →

Rating Levels

You have severe incomplete paralysis with marked muscular atrophy.

What the VA looks for

Severe symptoms affecting daily function
Marked muscular atrophy
Near or complete foot drop

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not filing each leg separately — peripheral neuropathy of the left and right legs are separate ratings.
⚠Not getting EMG/nerve conduction studies for objective documentation.
⚠If secondary to diabetes, make sure the connection is documented by your treating physician.
⚠Not also filing for upper extremity neuropathy if hands/arms are affected.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Peripheral Nerves Conditions
DBQ Diabetes Mellitus

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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