Meralgia Paresthetica

DC 8529Neurological38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8529

Numbness, tingling, or burning pain in the outer part of the thigh caused by compression of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve. The VA rates based on severity of nerve involvement.

Rating Levels

You have mild to moderate incomplete paralysis of the external cutaneous nerve of the thigh — numbness, tingling, or burning pain in the outer thigh. This is typically the maximum rating because it is a purely sensory nerve.

What the VA looks for

Numbness, tingling, or burning in outer thigh
Positive nerve conduction studies confirming lateral femoral cutaneous neuropathy
Pain or paresthesia worsened by standing, walking, or wearing tight clothing
Physical examination showing sensory deficit in lateral thigh distribution

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting nerve conduction studies to confirm the diagnosis — objective testing is the strongest evidence for this condition.
⚠Not connecting to military service factors like heavy equipment belts, body armor, or obesity from service-connected conditions that compress the nerve.
⚠The maximum rating is low because it is a sensory-only nerve — consider whether the condition is secondary to a spine condition that may be rated higher under a different diagnostic code.
⚠If bilateral, file for each leg separately — each side is rated independently.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Peripheral Nerves Conditions (Not Including Diabetic Sensory-Motor Peripheral Neuropathy)

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…