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Evidence checklist

Radiculopathy — Cervical (Upper)

DC 851038 CFR § 4.124aNeurological

Evidence strength

Mark what you already have below and your evidence strength appears here.

Target
Saved locally
01

Specialist opinion

Highest value0 of 4 collected
EMG/nerve conduction study documenting cervical nerve root involvementCritical

Electrodiagnostic testing confirming cervical radiculopathy with denervation changes in muscles of the affected myotome and slowed conduction in the upper extremity.

Private provider · independent opinion
Cervical MRI showing nerve root compressionCritical

MRI documenting disc herniation, foraminal stenosis, or other structural findings at the cervical level compressing the affected nerve root.

Private provider · independent opinion
Nexus opinion linking cervical radiculopathy to service-connected cervical spine conditionCritical

Medical opinion — typically a secondary service connection opinion — connecting your cervical radiculopathy to your service-connected cervical spine condition.

Private provider · independent opinion
Neurological examination documenting radiculopathy signsCritical

Examination documenting dermatomal sensory loss, muscle weakness graded 0-5, decreased reflexes, and positive Spurling's or Elvey's test findings.

Private provider · independent opinion
02

Treatment records

0 of 2 collected
Documentation of dominant vs. non-dominant arm involvementCritical

Medical records noting dominant arm laterality. Under DC 8510-8514, the major (dominant) extremity receives a higher rating.

VA or private records · written request
Treatment records (physical therapy, injections, surgery)

Records of epidural steroid injections, physical therapy, and cervical surgery with functional outcomes.

VA or private records · written request
03

Lay statements

0 of 1 collected
Buddy statement from spouse, family, or fellow service member

A written statement from someone who can describe observable symptoms and how your condition affects daily life.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
04

Benefits questionnaire

0 of 1 collected
Completed DBQ Peripheral Nerves ConditionsCritical

VA standardized form capturing sensory loss, motor weakness, and functional impairment for the specific cervical nerve root affected.

Provider-completed · VA DBQ formHow to get this →
05

Service records

0 of 1 collected
Service treatment records (STRs)Critical

Military medical records showing in-service treatment, complaints, or injuries related to this condition.

NPRC / milConnect · SF-180

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