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8724
§ 4.124a Schedule of ratings—neurological conditions and convulsive disorders.

Tibial nerve pain (neuralgia)

Nerve pain affecting the tibial nerve behind the knee, which may cause discomfort in the calf or foot.

What the rating means

Tibial nerve neuralgia is rated under diagnostic code 8724. VA rates neuralgia of the tibial nerve by using the same rating levels set for paralysis of that nerve under code 8524, but neuralgia cannot be rated higher than the moderate degree. Because the tibial nerve is a peripheral nerve, the ratings cover one side of the body; if both sides are affected, VA combines the ratings and applies the bilateral factor.

The paralysis scale has four levels. Complete paralysis, where plantar flexion is lost, true turning-in of the foot is impossible, flexion and separation of the toes are abolished, no muscle in the sole can move, and in high popliteal fossa lesions plantar flexion of the foot is also lost, is rated at 40%. Incomplete paralysis is rated as severe at 30%, moderate at 20%, or mild at 10%. Because this is a neuralgia rating, the regulation limits the rating to no higher than moderate, meaning the highest percentage available for tibial nerve neuralgia is 20%. When the condition is purely sensory, the rating should be at the mild or, at most, the moderate degree.

Evidence that helps

Medical records that document the nature and extent of your tibial nerve pain help establish where your symptoms fall within the rating levels. For a moderate rating at 20%, records showing objective findings of impaired function in the sole of the foot, difficulty with plantar flexion or toe movement, and sensory loss along the tibial nerve distribution would be relevant. For a mild rating at 10%, records reflecting pain, tingling, or reduced sensation with limited effect on function would correspond to that level.

Nerve conduction studies or electromyography results can provide objective evidence of the degree of nerve involvement. Physical examination findings recorded by a treating provider or a VA examiner, such as measurements of range of motion, strength testing of foot and toe muscles, and sensory testing, directly address the criteria. Statements from you describing how foot pain or altered sensation affects your ability to walk, stand, or carry out daily activities can show functional impact. Statements from people who observe your limitations in daily life may also reflect how the condition affects you.

Secondary conditions

Conditions that are often caused or made worse by this one. If you have any of these, they may be claimable as secondary service connection.