Radial Nerve Paralysis (Wrist Drop)

DC 8514Neurological38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8514

Paralysis or dysfunction of the radial nerve, which controls wrist and finger extension and sensation on the back of the hand. Complete radial nerve paralysis causes the classic "wrist drop" — the inability to extend the wrist or straighten the fingers, severely limiting grip and hand function. The dominant (major) hand receives higher ratings at moderate and above levels.

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 8514

Rating range

20% – 60%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8514. 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 complete paralysis of the radial nerve in your non-dominant (minor) hand. If it is your dominant hand, the rating is 70%. You have full wrist drop and cannot extend your wrist, fingers, or thumb.

What the VA looks for

Complete wrist drop documented on examination
Inability to extend wrist, fingers, or thumb
Complete loss of grip function due to extensor paralysis
Marked extensor muscle atrophy in the forearm
EMG confirming complete radial nerve denervation

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not specifying which hand is dominant — the dominant (major) hand receives significantly higher ratings: 70% vs. 60% for complete paralysis, 50% vs. 40% for severe.
⚠Not getting EMG and nerve conduction studies to confirm radial nerve involvement — wrist drop can also result from posterior interosseous nerve syndrome or cervical radiculopathy, each rated differently.
⚠Not documenting the in-service injury mechanism — the radial nerve is commonly damaged by humeral fractures (especially mid-shaft), prolonged compression ("Saturday night palsy"), or penetrating wounds in combat.
⚠Not describing how wrist drop eliminates effective grip — even though you can still flex your fingers, without wrist extension you cannot grasp objects effectively. This functional impact supports higher ratings.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Peripheral Nerves Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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Radial Nerve Paralysis (Wrist Drop)

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 8514

Rating range

20% – 60%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

Complete wrist drop documented on examination
Inability to extend wrist, fingers, or thumb
Complete loss of grip function due to extensor paralysis
Marked extensor muscle atrophy in the forearm
EMG confirming complete radial nerve denervation

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not specifying which hand is dominant — the dominant (major) hand receives significantly higher ratings: 70% vs. 60% for complete paralysis, 50% vs. 40% for severe.

⚠Not getting EMG and nerve conduction studies to confirm radial nerve involvement — wrist drop can also result from posterior interosseous nerve syndrome or cervical radiculopathy, each rated differently.

⚠Not documenting the in-service injury mechanism — the radial nerve is commonly damaged by humeral fractures (especially mid-shaft), prolonged compression ("Saturday night palsy"), or penetrating wounds in combat.

⚠Not describing how wrist drop eliminates effective grip — even though you can still flex your fingers, without wrist extension you cannot grasp objects effectively. This functional impact supports higher ratings.