How the VA Rates Radiculopathy
The plain-English version of the 38 CFR Part 4, Neurological Conditions — DC 8520-8530 (lower extremity) / 8710-8730 (upper extremity) criteria a VA rater evaluates Radiculopathy against, with the 2026 monthly rate at each level. A reference to what the regulation describes — never a prediction of any rating.
Diagnostic codes 8520, 8521, 8522, 8523, 8524, 8710, 8711, 8712, 8713, 8714, 8715
The rating levels
Criteria paraphrased from 38 CFR Part 4, Neurological Conditions — DC 8520-8530 (lower extremity) / 8710-8730 (upper extremity) for readability. Monthly amounts are the 2026 rate (effective December 1, 2025) for a veteran with no dependents if this were the only rated condition — dependents add more, and multiple conditions combine under the VA’s own math.
10%
$180.42/month
Mild radiculopathy — intermittent sensory symptoms only: tingling, numbness, or paresthesias. No significant motor loss. Symptoms are occasional and manageable.
Examples from this level’s criteria
- Occasional tingling or numbness radiating from spine
- Intermittent electric shock sensations
- No weakness or drop foot
- Symptoms provoked by certain positions
20%
$356.66/month
Moderate radiculopathy — persistent sensory symptoms, mild motor weakness. Consistent radiation of pain into limb. Reflex changes on exam.
Examples from this level’s criteria
- Constant or near-constant radiating pain
- Mild weakness in affected limb muscles
- Reflex loss (knee jerk, ankle jerk, biceps reflex)
- Difficulty with prolonged walking or standing due to leg pain
- Positive straight-leg raise or Spurling's test
40%
$795.84/month
Moderately severe radiculopathy — significant motor weakness, muscle atrophy, persistent severe pain radiation. Significant functional limitation.
Examples from this level’s criteria
- Significant weakness in affected distribution (foot drop, hand weakness)
- Muscle atrophy measurable on exam
- Constant severe radiating pain despite treatment
- Inability to stand or walk for more than brief periods
- Requires nerve block or pain management interventions
60%
$1,435.02/month
Severe radiculopathy — complete or near-complete motor loss in the affected nerve root distribution, with or without sensory loss.
Examples from this level’s criteria
- Near-complete paralysis of affected muscles
- Marked muscle atrophy
- Unable to perform functional activities in affected limb
- Complete sensory loss in dermatomal distribution
The listed symptoms are examples that appear in each level’s criteria — not a checklist that earns a percentage. Raters apply the criteria as a whole.
C&P exam tips for Radiculopathy
- Radiculopathy is rated separately from the spine condition — file it as a separate condition (e.g., 'Lumbar radiculopathy, right lower extremity' as a secondary to the lumbar spine condition).
- Request that the examiner document positive nerve tension signs: straight-leg raise (SLR), Spurling's test, Lasegue's sign.
- Get an EMG/NCS study before the exam — it objectively documents the nerve root compression and its severity.
- Describe the specific distribution of symptoms (where exactly the pain/numbness radiates).
- Note weakness, drop foot, or grip weakness — these are key markers for moderately severe vs. moderate.
Common mistakes on Radiculopathy claims
- Not claiming radiculopathy as a separate secondary condition — many veterans leave this off the claim entirely.
- Not obtaining EMG confirmation — without it, the examiner may only document 'subjective' symptoms.
- Not rating bilateral radiculopathy (both legs, both arms) separately.
Frequently asked questions
What diagnostic code does the VA use for Radiculopathy?
Radiculopathy is rated under 38 CFR Part 4, Neurological Conditions — DC 8520-8530 (lower extremity) / 8710-8730 (upper extremity) — diagnostic codes 8520, 8521, 8522, 8523, 8524, 8710, 8711, 8712, 8713, 8714, 8715.
What is the highest schedular VA rating for Radiculopathy?
60% is the highest level in the rating schedule for Radiculopathy. The criteria at that level describe: Severe radiculopathy — complete or near-complete motor loss in the affected nerve root distribution, with or without sensory loss.
How much does a 60% VA rating for Radiculopathy pay in 2026?
$1,435.02 per month, tax-free, for a veteran with no dependents (rates effective December 1, 2025) — more with a spouse, children, or dependent parents. If you have other rated conditions, the VA combines ratings using its own math rather than adding them.
Build your Radiculopathy claim documentation
Your first claim builds free, on screen — a personal statement mapped to these criteria and a cited draft medical opinion. No card to sign up.
Start your claim — freeEducational information about the rating schedule — not legal or medical advice, never a prediction or promise of any rating, and not affiliated with the VA.