Ratings Prime

Typically replies in minutes
Hey! 👋 Welcome to Ratings Prime. Have a question? Drop it here or call us at 305-897-2805.
Protected by our Privacy Policy
Home / VA Ratings A–Z / Radiculopathy / Sciatica

VA Rating for Radiculopathy / Sciatica

DC 8520/8620/8720 Max schedular: 80% Category: Neurological Updated for 2026 rates
The Official Criteria

Radiculopathy / Sciatica Rating Chart

Criteria from 38 CFR Part 4 (DC 8520/8620/8720). Pay shown is the 2026 monthly rate for a veteran alone at that percentage by itself.

RatingWhat qualifies2026 monthly pay*
80%Complete paralysis of the sciatic nerve: the foot dangles and drops, no active movement of muscles below the knee.$2,102.15
60%Incomplete paralysis, severe, with marked muscular atrophy.$1,435.02
40%Incomplete paralysis, moderately severe.$795.84
20%Incomplete paralysis, moderate — e.g., constant numbness/tingling with some functional impact.$356.66
10%Incomplete paralysis, mild — intermittent symptoms, sensory findings.$180.42

*Rate for that single rating with no dependents. Your combined rating and household may differ — run your exact numbers in our calculator.

How the VA Rates Radiculopathy / Sciatica

Each affected leg is rated separately and on top of your back rating. When symptoms are wholly sensory (numbness, tingling), the rating is generally mild to moderate; weakness, atrophy, or reflex loss on EMG pushes higher. Both legs rated = bilateral factor applies.

Evidence That Wins This Claim

  • Ask for an EMG/nerve conduction study — objective findings raise the severity tier.
  • Describe frequency: constant vs intermittent symptoms often separates 10% from 20%.
  • Radiculopathy in both legs plus the back rating adds up fast with the bilateral factor.

Common Questions

Is sciatica rated separately from back pain?

Yes. The spine rating covers the back itself; each leg's radiculopathy is a separate nerve rating under DC 8520 that combines with it.

Free Strategy Call · 305-897-2805