Conditions/Neurological

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

Diagnostic Code 8516Neurological

Compression or irritation of the ulnar nerve at the elbow, causing numbness and tingling in the ring and little fingers. Symptoms include pain at the inner elbow, weakness in grip and pinch, and difficulty with finger dexterity. Often caused by prolonged elbow flexion, direct pressure on the nerve, or previous elbow injury.

VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR)
70%

Complete paralysis of the ulnar nerve (major hand). Complete ulnar nerve dysfunction with profound impairment of hand function.

60%

Complete paralysis of the ulnar nerve (minor hand). Total loss of ulnar nerve function, complete muscle atrophy, claw hand deformity.

50%

Severe incomplete paralysis of the ulnar nerve (major hand). Severe weakness and atrophy of interosseous muscles, significant functional loss.

40%

Severe incomplete paralysis of the ulnar nerve (minor hand). Marked sensory loss, severe weakness, beginning muscle atrophy.

30%

Moderate incomplete paralysis of the ulnar nerve (major/dominant hand). Significant sensory loss, moderate intrinsic muscle weakness, functional impairment.

20%

Moderate incomplete paralysis of the ulnar nerve (minor/non-dominant hand). Persistent numbness in ulnar distribution, noticeable hand weakness.

10%

Mild incomplete paralysis of the ulnar nerve (either hand). Mild sensory symptoms in ring and little fingers, minimal weakness.

0%

No symptoms or findings

Evidence You'll Need

Medical Evidence

Current diagnosis from a qualified healthcare provider, medical records documenting symptoms and treatment history

Service Connection

Evidence linking your condition to military service (service treatment records, incident reports, or nexus letter)

Personal Statement

Your detailed account of how cubital tunnel syndrome affects your daily life and when symptoms began

Lay Evidence

Buddy letters from fellow service members or family who can corroborate your symptoms

C&P Exam Tips Preview

During your Compensation & Pension exam for cubital tunnel syndrome, examiners will assess your symptoms against the rating criteria above.

Be specific: Describe your worst day, not your average day

Document everything: Bring copies of all medical records and evidence

Functional impact: Explain how symptoms affect work, sleep, and daily activities

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