Circumflex Nerve

DC 8518 Upper Extremity Nerves

Circumflex Nerve is a VA-ratable condition under diagnostic code 8518 in the Upper Extremity Nerves category. Maximum rating: 50%.

Rating	Criteria
50%	Complete paralysis: inability to abduct arm at shoulder (major)
40%	Complete paralysis: inability to abduct arm at shoulder (minor)
30%	Incomplete paralysis: severe
20%	Incomplete paralysis: moderate
10%	Incomplete paralysis: mild

Maximum rating is 50% (major) or 40% (minor) for complete paralysis.

Filing Tips

Pro Tip: The VA won't connect the dots for you. That's your job. Build the paper trail before you file.

Gather medical evidence showing a current diagnosis of this condition.

Document in-service events, injuries, or exposures that caused or aggravated this condition.

Consider a nexus letter from a medical professional linking your condition to service.

Review the rating criteria for DC 8518 to understand what symptoms warrant higher ratings.

All radicular groups, paralysis

DC 8513

All Three Radicular Groups

DC 8513

Axillary Nerve

DC 8518

Carpal Tunnel

DC 8515

Circumflex nerve, paralysis

DC 8518

Cubital Tunnel

DC 8516

Eighth Cervical and First Thoracic

DC 8512

External Respiratory Nerve of Bell

DC 8519