Paralysis, Nerve: Peripheral: Musculocutaneous

Paralysis, Nerve: Peripheral: Musculocutaneous is a VA-ratable condition under diagnostic code 8517 in the Upper Extremity Nerves category. Maximum rating: 30%.

Rating Criteria

Rating Criteria
30% Complete paralysis: weakness of elbow flexion (major extremity)
20% Complete paralysis: weakness of elbow flexion (minor extremity)
20% Incomplete paralysis: severe (major)
10% Incomplete paralysis: moderate
0% Incomplete paralysis: mild

Important Notes

Maximum rating is 30% (major) or 20% (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 8517 to understand what symptoms warrant higher ratings.