Radiculopathy — nerve pain, numbness, or weakness radiating into a limb — is rated by the nerve affected, most often the sciatic nerve under Diagnostic Code 8520 at 10%, 20%, 40%, 60%, or 80%, based on whether the impairment is mild, moderate, moderately severe, severe, or complete. It is one of the most common and valuable secondary claims because it so often flows from an already service-connected back or neck condition, and each affected limb is rated separately.
Diagnostic code
DC 8520 (sciatic) and related nerve codes
How the rating works
For the sciatic nerve: 10% = mild; 20% = moderate; 40% = moderately severe; 60% = severe with marked muscular atrophy; 80% = complete paralysis. Upper-extremity radiculopathy is rated under the corresponding arm-nerve codes. Left and right sides are rated as separate disabilities.
Secondary conditions to watch for
These are commonly connected to radiculopathy — each can be rated on top of it with a medical nexus. Most veterans leave these on the table.
Secondary to a back/spine condition
Lumbar disc or spine conditions commonly cause lower-limb radiculopathy.
Secondary to a neck condition
Cervical spine conditions cause upper-limb radiculopathy.
Evidence that wins this claim
- A diagnosis identifying the affected nerve (often via EMG/nerve conduction study or imaging).
- Established service connection for the underlying spine condition.
- A nexus opinion tying the radiculopathy to that spine condition.
- Exam findings on strength, sensation, and reflexes for each affected limb.
Radiculopathy — frequently asked questions
- Is radiculopathy a secondary condition?
- Very often, yes. Radiculopathy frequently flows from a service-connected back or neck condition and is one of the most common secondary claims. Each affected limb is rated separately.
- What rating does sciatica get from the VA?
- Sciatic-nerve radiculopathy is rated 10% to 80% under DC 8520 depending on whether the impairment is mild, moderate, moderately severe, severe, or complete paralysis.
Updated June 2026. Ratings come from the VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR Part 4); your exact rating depends on the medical evidence. Educational information, not medical or legal advice. Not affiliated with the VA.
Think your radiculopathy is rated too low?
Get a free, no-obligation review from a VA-accredited representative who can pursue secondary conditions and the back pay you may be owed.
Free to you · No obligation · We may be compensated by the representative, which never affects your benefits. Not affiliated with the VA.
Free PACT Act Claim Guide
A plain-English guide to filing a strong toxic-exposure claim — plus alerts when new conditions or 2026 pay rates change. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
We never sell your data. Not affiliated with the VA.