Neurological · 38 CFR 4.124a · DC 8520
Sciatica VA Disability Rating
Sciatica is impaired sciatic nerve function presenting as radiating pain, numbness, or weakness in the lower extremity. Rated under DC 8520, severity is graded mild, moderate, moderately severe, severe, or complete paralysis. Almost always secondary to a service-connected lumbar spine condition. Bilateral sciatica (both legs) triggers the 10% bilateral-factor adjustment under 38 CFR 4.26.
Rating criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | Mild incomplete paralysis. |
| 20% | Moderate incomplete paralysis. |
| 40% | Moderately severe incomplete paralysis. |
| 60% | Severe incomplete paralysis with marked muscular atrophy. |
| 80% | Complete paralysis (foot dangles and drops, no active movement of the muscles below the knee). |
Common secondary conditions
Veterans rated for sciatica frequently file secondary-service-connection claims for:
- Lumbar spine (primary)
- 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.