Paralysis of the external popliteal nerve (common peroneal) DC 8521
VA rates it under diagnostic code 8521 in 38 CFR 4.124a. Body system: Head & nerves.
Also searched as: foot drop, peroneal nerve.
How VA rates it
The schedule allows 4 rating levels for this code: 10%, 20%, 30%, and 40%. VA picks the level whose criteria best match your symptoms and records.
It affects one leg, so each side is rated on its own. When both sides are rated, VA adds the bilateral factor (38 CFR 4.26).
Source: 38 CFR 4.124a on eCFR. Read the full criteria there before you file.
Rating levels and criteria
| Rating | What the schedule says |
|---|---|
| 40% | Complete; foot drop and slight droop of first phalanges of all toes, cannot dorsiflex the foot, extension (dorsal flexion) of proximal phalanges of toes lost; abduction of foot lost, adduction weakened; anesthesia covers entire dorsum of foot and toes |
| 30% | Incomplete:Severe |
| 20% | Incomplete:Moderate |
| 10% | Incomplete:Mild |
Criteria text from 38 CFR 4.124a, eCFR as of November 10, 2026. The eCFR is the official source if anything here differs.
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Rating schedule data as of November 10, 2026. Secondary and presumptive links checked November 13, 2026.
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