Neurological · 38 CFR 4.124a · DC 8521
Foot Drop VA Disability Rating
Foot drop is impaired external popliteal (common peroneal) nerve function presenting as inability to dorsiflex the foot. Rated under DC 8521 by severity. Often secondary to lumbar radiculopathy. Bilateral foot drop is rare but triggers the bilateral factor.
Rating criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | Mild incomplete paralysis. |
| 20% | Moderate incomplete paralysis. |
| 30% | Severe incomplete paralysis. |
| 40% | Complete paralysis (foot drops, slapping gait). |
Common secondary conditions
Veterans rated for foot drop frequently file secondary-service-connection claims for:
- Lumbar radiculopathy
- Lower back (primary)
Use the calculator
Once you know the percentage assigned for this condition, plug it into the VA Combined Rating Calculator alongside any other service-connected ratings to see your combined percentage and 2026 monthly compensation.
Source citations
- 38 CFR 4.124a (eCFR)
- VA.gov current monthly compensation rates
- VA Office of General Counsel — Accreditation directory
VetDisabilityCalc is an independent reference site operated by Zoom Lifestyle LLC. We are not VA-accredited and we do not prepare or present VA claims. The information in this guide is reference material based on the cited regulations and is not legal advice. For representation, use the official VA OGC accreditation directory.