Ulnar Nerve Neuritis — VA Disability Rating (DC 8616)
Diagnostic Code 8616 · 38 CFR §4.123
What Is It?
Neuritis of the ulnar nerve (DC 8616) refers to inflammation of this nerve, causing pain, tenderness, and impaired function along its distribution. The ulnar nerve passes through the cubital tunnel at the elbow and Guyon's canal at the wrist, controlling fine motor movements of the ring and little fingers and providing sensation to the inner hand. Under VA regulations (38 CFR §4.123), neuritis characterized by loss of reflexes, muscle atrophy, sensory disturbances, and constant pain is rated on the same scale as incomplete paralysis under DC 8516. The maximum rating for neuritis without organic changes cannot exceed the moderate incomplete paralysis level.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 40% | Severe neuritis with organic changes such as muscle atrophy, trophic skin changes, and loss of reflexes confirmed on examination |
| 30% | Moderately severe neuritis with constant pain, documented loss of reflexes, and muscle atrophy in the hand and ring/little fingers — maximum rating without organic changes |
| 20% | Moderate neuritis with regular pain, tenderness along the nerve, and measurable sensory changes in the hand and ring/little fingers |
| 10% | Mild neuritis with intermittent pain and minimal sensory disturbance in the hand and ring/little fingers |
Evidence Needed
- Medical records documenting nerve inflammation and its connection to military service
- Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies showing nerve dysfunction
- Clinical findings of reflex changes, sensory disturbances, or muscle atrophy
- Treatment records showing ongoing management with anti-inflammatory or neuropathic pain medications
- If claiming secondary to another condition, a medical nexus opinion linking the neuritis to your service-connected disability
C&P Exam Tips
- Describe pain patterns honestly — note whether pain is constant or intermittent and its severity
- Point out any muscle wasting or tenderness along the hand to the examiner
- Mention all medications you take for the condition and their effectiveness
- Explain how the condition affects your daily activities on your worst days
- Do not minimize symptoms during strength or sensory testing
How to File
File under DC 8616 on VA Form 21-526EZ. If claiming as secondary to a service-connected condition, clearly identify the primary disability and explain how it caused nerve inflammation. Include EMG or nerve conduction study results if available. The VA will rate your neuritis using the same criteria as incomplete paralysis of DC 8516, so ensure your medical evidence documents the severity of sensory and motor involvement.
Common Mistakes
Veterans often fail to distinguish neuritis from general pain, missing the opportunity for a separate rating. Another common error is not obtaining nerve conduction studies that document inflammatory changes. Some veterans accept a lower rating by not reporting the full impact of constant pain and sensory disturbance on daily function. Make sure your records specify neuritis of the ulnar nerve rather than a vague peripheral neuropathy diagnosis.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between DC 8516 and DC 8616?
DC 8516 covers paralysis (motor and sensory loss) of the ulnar nerve, while DC 8616 covers neuritis (inflammation) of the same nerve. Neuritis is rated under the incomplete paralysis scale but generally cannot exceed the moderate incomplete paralysis level unless there are confirmed organic changes like muscle atrophy or loss of reflexes.
Can I receive ratings for both paralysis and neuritis of the same nerve?
No. The VA does not assign separate ratings for paralysis and neuritis of the same nerve because they use the same rating criteria. Your condition will be rated under whichever diagnostic code best describes your symptoms. If you have both inflammatory and paralytic features, the higher-rated code applies.