VA Disability Rating for Obturator Nerve Paralysis
Diagnostic Code 8528 · 38 CFR §4.124a
What Is It?
The obturator nerve controls the adductor muscles on the inner side of your thigh, which pull your legs together. It also provides sensation to a small area on the inner thigh. When this nerve is damaged, you have difficulty crossing your legs, keeping your knees together, and may feel your leg swing outward when walking. You might also have a wide-based gait because you cannot properly control the inward movement of your leg. Veterans may develop obturator nerve damage from pelvic fractures, hip surgeries, obturator hernia repairs, or other trauma to the pelvic region during service.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | Severe to complete paralysis of the obturator nerve. Significant or total loss of thigh adduction with meaningful gait abnormality and functional limitation. |
| 0% | Mild or moderate incomplete paralysis. Some adductor weakness or inner thigh numbness is present but functional impact is minimal. |
Evidence Needed
- Medical records documenting obturator nerve damage related to service
- Electromyography testing of the adductor muscles
- Strength testing showing adductor weakness compared to the other leg
- Gait analysis or physical therapy notes describing walking abnormalities
- Pelvic imaging or surgical records showing the cause of the nerve damage
C&P Exam Tips
- Demonstrate your difficulty squeezing your knees together against resistance
- Show the examiner how your gait is affected, particularly any wide-based walking pattern
- Describe difficulty with activities like getting in and out of a car
- Mention inner thigh numbness if present
- Explain how the condition affects balance and stability during walking
How to File
File under DC 8528 for obturator nerve paralysis. If the nerve damage resulted from a pelvic fracture or hip surgery during service, include those records and establish the connection. Nerve testing focused on the adductor muscles is important to confirm the diagnosis.
Common Mistakes
Not getting electromyography of the adductor muscles to confirm nerve involvement Attributing inner thigh weakness to a groin strain rather than a nerve condition Not describing the gait abnormality that results from adductor weakness Failing to connect the nerve damage to the service-connected pelvic or hip injury
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the obturator nerve do in everyday activities?
Your adductor muscles controlled by the obturator nerve are essential for activities that require bringing your legs together or stabilizing your pelvis during walking. You use them when crossing your legs, getting in and out of vehicles, riding a bicycle, and maintaining a normal walking stride.
Can obturator nerve damage occur from pelvic fractures?
Yes, the obturator nerve passes through the pelvis and can be injured during pelvic fractures. The nerve can be stretched, compressed by bone fragments, or damaged during the surgical repair of the fracture. If you sustained a pelvic fracture during service, have your provider evaluate for obturator nerve involvement.