Radiculopathy - Lower Extremities (Lumbar)
Lumbar radiculopathy is caused by compression or irritation of nerve roots as they exit the lumbar spine (lower back). This leads to nerve pain, numbness, tingling, and/or weakness that travels into the lower extremities. It is one of the most commonly claimed secondary conditions linked to service-connected spine disabilities. Which specific nerve the VA rates it under depends on which nerve root is affected - the sciatic nerve (DC 8520) is the most common, but the femoral nerve (DC 8526) and other lower extremity nerves may also apply. The veteran can receive a separate rating for each leg that is affected, and these ratings are eligible for the bilateral factor.
VA Rating Levels
Incomplete paralysis - mild. Tingling or mild pain with some mild range of motion impacts.
Incomplete paralysis - moderate. Tingling, numbness, moderate pain, or other symptoms that interfere with the ability to function.
Incomplete paralysis - moderately severe (sciatic nerve). Ability to function is notably limited.
Incomplete paralysis - severe (sciatic nerve). Marked muscular atrophy and seriously limited function.
Complete paralysis of the sciatic nerve. Foot dangles and drops, no active movement below the knee, flexion of knee weakened or lost.
Exam Tips & Key Evidence
- →Lumbar radiculopathy is one of the most commonly granted secondary conditions to spine disabilities. Per VA policy, nerve-based secondary conditions tied to the spine are effectively a presumptive grant unless conflicting evidence suggests another cause.
- →Veterans can receive separate ratings for radiculopathy in EACH affected leg. If both legs are affected, you can receive two separate ratings, and the bilateral factor will apply to boost your combined rating.
- →Effective dates for nerve-related secondary conditions of the spine can potentially go back up to one year BEFORE the claim was filed, if medical evidence of record shows the condition existed.
- →The specific rating percentage depends on severity: if a veteran has a diagnosis and reports any symptoms, the severity must be rated at least mild (10%), even if the examiner notes no visible symptoms at the exam.
- →Moderate ratings and above require testable or observable symptoms such as decreased sensitivity, reduced reflexes, muscle weakness or atrophy, or impaired function.
- →If you received a mild rating but believe moderate is appropriate, consider filing a Higher Level Review. Nerve severity ratings can be subjective, and differences of opinion among raters are common.
- →Radiculopathy is typically rated under paralysis of the applicable nerve, as it generally offers the highest evaluation and covers most symptoms.
Commonly Related Conditions
38 CFR Reference
38 CFR 4.124a