Neurological · 38 CFR 4.124a · DC 8520
Lumbar Radiculopathy VA Disability Rating
Lumbar radiculopathy from lumbar disc disease or stenosis rates under DC 8520 (sciatic nerve, most common path) at 10/20/40/60/80%. Each leg rates separately; bilateral triggers 10% bilateral factor under 38 CFR 4.26. See also separate sciatica article.
Rating criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | Mild. |
| 20% | Moderate. |
| 40% | Moderately severe. |
| 60% | Severe with marked atrophy. |
| 80% | Complete paralysis. |
Common secondary conditions
Veterans rated for lumbar radiculopathy frequently file secondary-service-connection claims for:
- Lumbar spine
- Foot drop
- Erectile dysfunction
- Bladder dysfunction
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.