This guide covers how the VA actually rates nerve pain / numbness under diagnostic code 8520 sciatic / 8510-13 upper — the criteria the rater applies, the evidence that carries weight, and the related conditions veterans most often leave unclaimed. It's the same playbook our own case managers work from.
How the VA rates it
Rated SEPARATELY PER EXTREMITY. Sciatic: mild 10% · moderate 20% · moderately severe 40%. Two legs = two separate ratings.
Honest ceiling: 40% for moderately severe nerve involvement.
The evidence that wins
Service connection: Rides with the spine claim.
Medical opinion (nexus): Secondary to spine — usually straightforward.
Filing it right the first time
Most denials on nerve pain / numbness claims trace to the same failures: the evidence never addressed the actual rating criteria, the connection to service was asserted instead of supported, or the C&P exam went sideways because nobody prepared for it. A complete file — records, statements written to the criteria above, and honest exam preparation — is the difference.
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