Paralysis, Nerve: Peripheral: External Popliteal (Common Peroneal)
Paralysis, Nerve: Peripheral: External Popliteal (Common Peroneal) is a VA-ratable condition under diagnostic code 8521 in the Lower Extremity Nerves category. Maximum rating: 40%.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 40% | Complete paralysis; foot drop and slight droop of first phalanges, cannot dorsiflex foot |
| 30% | Severe incomplete paralysis |
| 20% | Moderate incomplete paralysis |
| 10% | Mild incomplete paralysis |
Important Notes
Common cause of 'foot drop'. Branch of sciatic nerve.
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 8521 to understand what symptoms warrant higher ratings.
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