Axillary Nerve

DC 8518 Upper Extremity Nerves

Axillary Nerve is a VA-ratable condition under diagnostic code 8518 in the Upper Extremity Nerves category. Maximum rating: 50%.

Rating	Criteria
50%	Complete paralysis: inability to abduct arm at shoulder (major)
40%	Complete paralysis: inability to abduct arm at shoulder (minor)
30%	Incomplete paralysis: severe
20%	Incomplete paralysis: moderate
10%	Incomplete paralysis: mild

Maximum rating is 50% (major) or 40% (minor) for complete paralysis.

Filing Tips

Pro Tip: The VA won't connect the dots for you. That's your job. Build the paper trail before you file.

Gather medical evidence showing a current diagnosis of this condition.

Document in-service events, injuries, or exposures that caused or aggravated this condition.

Consider a nexus letter from a medical professional linking your condition to service.

Review the rating criteria for DC 8518 to understand what symptoms warrant higher ratings.

All radicular groups, paralysis

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Eighth Cervical and First Thoracic

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External Respiratory Nerve of Bell

DC 8519