Body system: Neurological Conditions and Convulsive DisordersRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.124a
Neuralgia is nerve pain that can cause severe, shooting, or burning sensations along nerve pathways. Under diagnostic code 8716, the VA rates neuralgia using the same criteria as paralysis conditions, which means they focus on how much function you've lost rather than just the pain itself. Ratings range from 10% for mild functional loss up to 50% for complete loss with severe deformities like 'griffin claw' (fingers permanently curled due to muscle contractions) and significant muscle wasting in your hand and wrist.
Rating levels
- 30% — Under 38 CFR §4.124a, neuralgia of the ulnar 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 ulnar 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.
- 10% — Under 38 CFR §4.124a, neuralgia of the ulnar 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.
- 10% — Under 38 CFR §4.124a, neuralgia of the ulnar 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.