Progressive Muscular Atrophy

DC 8023Neurological38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8023

A progressive motor neuron disease causing lower motor neuron degeneration, leading to muscle weakness, wasting, and loss of reflexes without the upper motor neuron involvement seen in classic ALS. The VA rates this condition based on the severity of residual disabilities, with a minimum 30% rating.

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 8023

Rating range

30% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8023. 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 progressive muscular atrophy with widespread paralysis and muscle wasting. You are unable to care for yourself and require constant assistance.

What the VA looks for

Severe or complete paralysis in multiple extremities
Widespread muscle atrophy with loss of functional movement
Inability to perform activities of daily living
Requires constant assistance or institutional care
Documented need for aid and attendance

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not differentiating progressive muscular atrophy from ALS — while both are motor neuron diseases, PMA involves only lower motor neurons. A neurologist must clearly diagnose and distinguish the specific condition.
⚠Not documenting the progressive nature — serial examinations showing worsening weakness and atrophy over time are essential to support the diagnosis and higher ratings.
⚠Not filing for each affected extremity separately — like ALS, each limb with significant impairment can be rated independently under peripheral nerve codes.
⚠Not applying for Special Monthly Compensation when the disease advances — loss of use of hands or feet, need for aid and attendance, and housebound status all qualify for SMC.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Central Nervous System and Neuromuscular Diseases

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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

Progressive Muscular Atrophy

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 8023

Rating range

30% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have severe progressive muscular atrophy with widespread paralysis and muscle wasting. You are unable to care for yourself and require constant assistance.

What the VA looks for

Severe or complete paralysis in multiple extremities
Widespread muscle atrophy with loss of functional movement
Inability to perform activities of daily living
Requires constant assistance or institutional care
Documented need for aid and attendance

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not differentiating progressive muscular atrophy from ALS — while both are motor neuron diseases, PMA involves only lower motor neurons. A neurologist must clearly diagnose and distinguish the specific condition.

⚠Not documenting the progressive nature — serial examinations showing worsening weakness and atrophy over time are essential to support the diagnosis and higher ratings.

⚠Not filing for each affected extremity separately — like ALS, each limb with significant impairment can be rated independently under peripheral nerve codes.

⚠Not applying for Special Monthly Compensation when the disease advances — loss of use of hands or feet, need for aid and attendance, and housebound status all qualify for SMC.