Sciatica and radiculopathy

Overview

Radiculopathy is nerve pain, numbness, or weakness that travels along a nerve, often from a back condition into a leg. The sciatic nerve is the one most often involved for the legs.

How VA rates it

Diagnostic Code 8520 · 38 CFR 4.124a

Here is a plain language summary of the rating levels in the regulation. Read the official text for the exact wording.

Each affected leg is rated separately, and the bilateral factor in 38 CFR 4.26 may apply.

Common secondary connections

These are conditions often discussed in connection with Sciatica and radiculopathy. A secondary claim generally needs medical evidence that one condition caused or worsened another. This list is general education, not a suggestion about any claim.

• Usually claimed as secondary to a back condition

Presumptive notes

VA does not list this condition on its main presumptive lists covered in this library. Service connection is generally shown with evidence of a current condition, an in service event, and a link between them. See VA hazardous materials exposure for other presumptive programs.

Evidence veterans generally gather

VA describes evidence types in its evidence guide. For this condition, veterans often collect:

• Nerve conduction studies or EMG results, if done
• Treatment notes describing numbness, tingling, weakness, or pain
• A lay statement about how symptoms affect walking, gripping, or daily tasks
• A current diagnosis from a medical provider
• Service treatment records and personnel records
• VA and private treatment records
• Statements from you, family, or fellow service members (lay statements)
• A Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) completed by a provider, if available

Official source

Rating levels: 38 CFR 4.124a on eCFR. Rules change; always confirm the current text.

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