Suprascapular Neuropathy

DC 8510Neurological38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8510

Compression or damage to the suprascapular nerve, which controls two key shoulder muscles (supraspinatus and infraspinatus). This causes shoulder pain, weakness in raising and rotating the arm, and muscle wasting on the back of the shoulder.

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 8510

Rating range

10% – 40%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8510. 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 suprascapular nerve on your dominant arm with total loss of supraspinatus and infraspinatus function, resulting in major shoulder disability.

What the VA looks for

Complete paralysis of supraspinatus and infraspinatus
Complete loss of shoulder abduction initiation and external rotation
Severe muscle atrophy clearly visible
EMG/NCS confirming complete suprascapular nerve lesion
Major occupational limitation documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting an EMG and nerve conduction study — this test specifically identifies suprascapular nerve damage and distinguishes it from rotator cuff tears, which have similar symptoms but different treatments and ratings.
⚠Not getting an MRI to identify the cause of compression — ganglion cysts at the suprascapular notch or spinoglenoid notch are a common cause and may require surgical treatment.
⚠Confusing suprascapular neuropathy with a rotator cuff injury — both cause shoulder weakness and pain, but they are rated under different diagnostic codes. If you have both, claim them separately.
⚠Not documenting muscle atrophy — visible wasting of the infraspinatus muscle on the back of the shoulder is a key clinical finding that supports higher ratings and should be photographed and measured.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Peripheral Nerves
DBQ Shoulder and Arm Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 8510

Rating range

10% – 40%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have complete paralysis of the suprascapular nerve on your dominant arm with total loss of supraspinatus and infraspinatus function, resulting in major shoulder disability.

What the VA looks for

Complete paralysis of supraspinatus and infraspinatus
Complete loss of shoulder abduction initiation and external rotation
Severe muscle atrophy clearly visible
EMG/NCS confirming complete suprascapular nerve lesion
Major occupational limitation documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting an EMG and nerve conduction study — this test specifically identifies suprascapular nerve damage and distinguishes it from rotator cuff tears, which have similar symptoms but different treatments and ratings.

⚠Not getting an MRI to identify the cause of compression — ganglion cysts at the suprascapular notch or spinoglenoid notch are a common cause and may require surgical treatment.

⚠Confusing suprascapular neuropathy with a rotator cuff injury — both cause shoulder weakness and pain, but they are rated under different diagnostic codes. If you have both, claim them separately.

⚠Not documenting muscle atrophy — visible wasting of the infraspinatus muscle on the back of the shoulder is a key clinical finding that supports higher ratings and should be photographed and measured.