Femoral Nerve Paralysis
The femoral nerve (also called the anterior crural nerve) originates from the spinal cord, travels around the outside of the hip toward the abdomen, then extends down the thigh. It controls movement of the knee and leg. Damage to the femoral nerve can cause weakness in the quadriceps, difficulty extending the knee, and numbness in the thigh. The femoral nerve is in Group 2 of the lower extremity nerve groupings, meaning it CAN be rated separately from sciatic nerve group conditions (Group 1) and Group 3 nerves. Each leg can receive its own rating, and the bilateral factor applies.
VA Rating Levels
Incomplete paralysis - mild. Tingling or mild pain with some mild impacts.
Incomplete paralysis - moderate. Symptoms interfere with ability to function.
Incomplete paralysis - severe. Seriously limited function.
Complete paralysis. Paralysis of the quadriceps extensor muscles.
Exam Tips & Key Evidence
- →The femoral nerve is in Group 2 of the lower extremity nerve groupings. It CAN be rated separately from Group 1 nerves (sciatic, peroneal, tibial). This means a veteran could potentially receive a rating for both sciatic radiculopathy AND femoral nerve involvement.
- →If more than one nerve within Group 2 (femoral nerve and internal saphenous nerve) is impaired, the veteran receives a single evaluation for the group - whichever gives the highest rating.
- →Each leg can receive its own separate evaluation, and the bilateral factor applies.
- →If you have a diagnosis and report symptoms, the severity must be rated at least mild, even if the examiner notes no visible findings.
- →This is a presumptive condition if diagnosed within one year of separation and the severity warranted at least 10% within that time.
- →Neuritis (DC 8626) ratings: 10% mild, 20% moderate, 30% severe. Neuralgia (DC 8726) ratings: 10% mild, 20% moderate.
Commonly Related Conditions
38 CFR Reference
38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8526/8626/8726