Nerve pain affecting the upper spine nerve roots, which may cause sharp or burning pain in the shoulder and upper arm.
Because the ratings turn on how much nerve function is lost and whether the involvement is sensory, motor, or both, medical records that describe your specific symptoms and their severity are the most useful. Examination findings that document the degree of pain, any weakness, reduced range of motion at the shoulder or elbow, and sensory deficits help place the condition at a particular level. Nerve conduction studies or electromyography results that show the extent of nerve impairment can support a higher severity rating. Imaging reports identifying a structural cause at the upper spine may help establish the nature of the nerve involvement. Statements from you or people who know you describing how pain or weakness affects your ability to lift, reach, carry, or perform work tasks can show functional impact. Records noting whether both sides are affected matter because bilateral involvement changes how the ratings are combined.
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.
