Peripheral neuropathy

Medical records showing how your nerve function is affected are central to the rating. For the higher levels, records documenting complete or near-complete loss of movement below the knee, foot drop, or weakness of knee flexion would support an 80% rating. For the 60% level, records showing severe incomplete paralysis along with objective findings of marked muscular atrophy — such as measurements comparing limb circumference — are relevant.

For moderate or moderately severe ratings, examination findings that document specific deficits in motor strength, reflex loss, or sensory changes help show where your condition falls on the scale. Electrodiagnostic studies, such as nerve conduction studies or electromyography, can provide objective evidence of nerve damage and its extent.

If your neuropathy affects only sensation with no motor involvement, records and exam findings confirming that distinction matter, since the regulation limits purely sensory involvement to the mild or moderate range. Statements from you or people who know you describing how weakness, numbness, or loss of coordination affects your ability to walk, work, or carry out daily activities can help show the functional impact of your condition.