I have numbness and tingling down my arm. How does the VA rate nerve issues?

Numbness and tingling down the arm is most commonly rated by the VA as cervical radiculopathy or an upper extremity peripheral nerve condition under 38 CFR Part 4. The rating is based on the severity of nerve impairment and which specific nerve is affected — not on MRI findings alone. How the VA determines the rating: The VA evaluates nerve conditions using a scale of incomplete to complete paralysis: - Mild incomplete paralysis -> 10%–20% - Moderate incomplete paralysis -> 20%–40% - Severe incomplete paralysis -> 40%–60% - Complete paralysis -> 60%+ depending on the nerve and limb Ratings also differ based on whether it’s your dominant (major) or non-dominant (minor) arm — the dominant arm is rated slightly higher because the functional loss is greater. What the C&P examiner actually tests: During your Compensation & Pension exam, the examiner will assess muscle strength (using a 0–5 scale), grip strength, reflexes, sensation, and any visible muscle wasting. The key phrase in your exam report is “functional impairment” — the more clearly your impairment is documented in those specific terms, the better your rating outcome. The secondary connection most veterans miss: If your arm symptoms are caused by a service-connected neck or spine condition (such as a cervical disc herniation), the nerve condition can be rated separately as a secondary condition — meaning you get a rating for both the neck and the nerve damage on top of it. This is one of the most commonly missed rating opportunities in orthopedic claims.