Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (Median Nerve)
Carpal tunnel syndrome is rated under Diagnostic Code 8515 as paralysis of the median nerve. The median nerve controls bending the hand down at the wrist, curling the fingers, and turning the forearm up and down. Ratings differ for the dominant (major) versus non-dominant (minor) hand. Complete paralysis results in the hand being inclined to the ulnar side, the index and middle fingers more extended than normal, considerable atrophy of the thenar muscles, incomplete and defective pronation, inability to make a fist, weakened wrist flexion, and pain with trophic disturbances.
VA Rating Levels
Incomplete paralysis, mild (same for both dominant and non-dominant hand): tingling, mild pain, slight impact on function.
Incomplete paralysis, moderate, non-dominant hand: numbness, moderate pain, or symptoms that interfere with function. (30% for dominant hand.)
Incomplete paralysis, severe, non-dominant hand: seriously limited function, possible muscle atrophy or poor circulation. (50% for dominant hand.)
Complete paralysis, non-dominant hand: ape hand deformity, inability to make a fist, defective opposition and abduction of thumb, weakened wrist flexion. (70% for dominant hand.)
Exam Tips & Key Evidence
- →Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the most commonly claimed upper extremity nerve conditions for veterans, especially those with repetitive hand use during service.
- →Your dominant hand receives a higher rating at the same severity level. Be sure the VA correctly identifies your dominant hand.
- →Combined with neuritis (DC 8615) or neuralgia (DC 8715), the nerve can only be rated under one category, whichever is the primary disability.
- →If you also have ulnar nerve issues in the same hand, only the higher-rated nerve evaluation applies for that arm.
Commonly Related Conditions
38 CFR Reference
38 CFR $ 4.124a, Diagnostic Code 8515