Condition Rating Guides
Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…
Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988, Press 1 · Text 838255 · Chat at VeteransCrisisLine.net
Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…
Pain, numbness, or tingling that radiates from the spine down the leg along the sciatic nerve. This is commonly secondary to lumbar spine conditions and is rated separately for each affected leg.
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 8520
Rating range
10% – 80%
Rating levels
5
Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8520. 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.
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 →You have complete paralysis of the sciatic nerve — the foot dangles and drops, no active movement possible below the knee, and flexion of the knee is weakened or lost.
What the VA looks for
Conditions commonly associated with Radiculopathy — Sciatic Nerve or rated under the same body system.
Plantar Fasciitis (Foot Pain)
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
Knee Limitation of Flexion
Lumbar Strain (Low Back Pain)
Cervical Strain (Neck Pain)
Hip Limitation of Flexion
Degenerative Arthritis (Osteoarthritis)
Scoliosis
Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction
Intervertebral Disc Syndrome (IVDS)
Spinal Stenosis