Internal Popliteal (Tibial) Nerve Neuralgia — VA Disability Rating (DC 8724)
Diagnostic Code 8724 · 38 CFR §4.124
What Is It?
Neuralgia of the internal popliteal (tibial) nerve (DC 8724) refers to chronic nerve pain along its distribution without the structural changes seen in neuritis or paralysis. The internal popliteal nerve, commonly called the tibial nerve, runs behind the knee and down the back of the lower leg, controlling calf muscles for plantarflexion and providing sensation to the sole of the foot. Under VA regulations (38 CFR §4.124), neuralgia is characterized by a dull, intermittent pain typical of the nerve involved. It is rated on the same scale as incomplete paralysis under DC 8524, with the maximum rating not exceeding the moderate incomplete paralysis level.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 30% | Moderately severe neuralgia with characteristic constant or near-constant pain — maximum rating for neuralgia without organic changes |
| 20% | Moderate neuralgia with frequent pain episodes affecting function of the calf and foot sole |
| 10% | Mild neuralgia with dull, intermittent pain in the calf and foot sole |
Evidence Needed
- Medical records documenting chronic nerve pain connected to military service
- Nerve conduction studies or EMG to rule out paralysis and confirm neuralgia diagnosis
- Pain management records showing treatment with neuropathic pain medications
- Documentation of pain frequency, intensity, and functional impact
- If claiming secondary to another condition, a medical nexus opinion linking the neuralgia to your service-connected disability
C&P Exam Tips
- Describe the character of your pain — burning, shooting, aching, or electric sensations
- Explain how often the pain occurs and how it limits use of your calf and foot sole
- Bring a log of pain episodes if you keep one
- Mention all medications tried and their effectiveness
- Describe your worst days, not just how you feel at the exam
How to File
File under DC 8724 on VA Form 21-526EZ. If claiming as secondary to a service-connected condition, identify the primary disability and explain how it causes chronic nerve pain. Include documentation of pain frequency and intensity. The VA rates neuralgia using the incomplete paralysis criteria of DC 8524, with the maximum generally limited to the moderate level unless organic changes are present.
Common Mistakes
The most common mistake is not filing for neuralgia as a separate condition from the underlying nerve injury or spine condition. Veterans also frequently fail to document the frequency and severity of pain episodes, which makes it difficult for the examiner to assign an appropriate rating. Ensure your diagnosis specifically names neuralgia of the internal popliteal (tibial) nerve rather than generic chronic pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is neuralgia (DC 8724) different from neuritis (DC 8624)?
Neuritis involves inflammation with objective findings like reflex loss and muscle atrophy, while neuralgia refers to nerve pain without those structural changes. Both are rated under the incomplete paralysis scale of DC 8524, but neuralgia is generally limited to a lower maximum rating than neuritis.
Can neuralgia be rated separately from my spine condition?
Yes. Neuralgia of a peripheral nerve can be rated separately from the spinal condition causing it, just as radiculopathy can. The spine is rated for its skeletal limitation and the nerve is rated for its neurological symptoms. File them as separate conditions on your claim.