Body system: Neurological Conditions and Convulsive DisordersRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.124a
Neuralgia is nerve pain that can be severe and debilitating. Under diagnostic code 8714, the VA rates neuralgia based on how much it affects your ability to move and use your hand, wrist, and arm - essentially treating it like paralysis. The ratings range from 20% for mild cases to 60% for complete loss of function where you can't extend your hand, move your fingers properly, or grip things effectively.
Rating levels
- 30% — Under 38 CFR §4.124a, neuralgia of the musculospiral (radial) nerve is rated by reference to the paralysis tiers for the same nerve, up to a maximum of moderate incomplete paralysis. Tic douloureux of the trigeminal nerve is an exception and may be rated up to complete paralysis per the schedule note.
- 20% — Under 38 CFR §4.124a, neuralgia of the musculospiral (radial) nerve is rated by reference to the paralysis tiers for the same nerve, up to a maximum of moderate incomplete paralysis. Tic douloureux of the trigeminal nerve is an exception and may be rated up to complete paralysis per the schedule note.
- 20% — Under 38 CFR §4.124a, neuralgia of the musculospiral (radial) nerve is rated by reference to the paralysis tiers for the same nerve, up to a maximum of moderate incomplete paralysis. Tic douloureux of the trigeminal nerve is an exception and may be rated up to complete paralysis per the schedule note.
- 20% — Under 38 CFR §4.124a, neuralgia of the musculospiral (radial) nerve is rated by reference to the paralysis tiers for the same nerve, up to a maximum of moderate incomplete paralysis. Tic douloureux of the trigeminal nerve is an exception and may be rated up to complete paralysis per the schedule note.