Ulnar Nerve Paralysis
DC 8516 §4.124a Neurological Direct
Inner forearm/hand nerve. Rated by dominant vs non-dominant hand.
VA rating criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 60% | Complete paralysis (dominant); the 'griffin claw' deformity, due to flexor contraction of ring and little fingers |
| 50% | Complete paralysis (non-dominant) |
| 40% | Incomplete, severe (dominant) |
| 30% | Incomplete, severe (non-dominant); or moderate (dominant) |
| 20% | Incomplete, moderate (non-dominant); or mild (dominant) |
| 10% | Mild (non-dominant) |
Filing this claim
This is typically filed as a direct service connection claim. You need a current diagnosis, evidence of in-service event or exposure, and a nexus letter linking them. Use the letter generators to draft your nexus letter and Statement in Support of Claim.
Step by step
- File an Intent to File (Form 21-0966) to lock your effective date.
- Confirm you have a current medical diagnosis in a medical record.
- Get a nexus letter — magic phrase: "at least as likely as not."
- Write a Statement in Support of Claim (21-4138).
- If applicable, gather buddy statements (21-10210).
- File the formal 21-526EZ.
Source: 38 CFR §4.124a. For exact regulatory language, consult eCFR Title 38. This is general education — for your specific case, consult a VA-accredited representative.