Common symptoms
- ▸Pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness
- ▸Loss of balance or coordination
- ▸Headaches, dizziness, or cognitive changes
- ▸Episodes that interrupt daily activity
Common evidence
- ▸Neurology evaluation and diagnosis
- ▸Imaging (MRI, CT) or EMG/nerve conduction studies
- ▸Symptom log documenting frequency and severity
- ▸Medication and treatment records
- ▸Lay statements on functional impact
Primary service connection examples
- ▸Blast/TBI exposure or head trauma in service
- ▸In-service neurological treatment or diagnosis
- ▸Documented exposure to neurotoxins
Secondary service connection examples
- ▸Secondary to TBI, PTSD, or tinnitus
- ▸Secondary to spine or orthopedic condition (radiculopathy)
- ▸Secondary to diabetes (peripheral neuropathy)
Rating basics
Rated under 38 CFR §4.124a based on severity, frequency, and functional impact. Many neurological codes use 'mild / moderate / severe' incomplete paralysis criteria. Episodic conditions (e.g., headaches, seizures) are rated by frequency of incapacitating episodes.
Common denial reasons
- ✕No diagnostic workup or imaging
- ✕No frequency log for episodic conditions
- ✕Missing nexus to in-service event
- ✕Examiner attributes symptoms to age or unrelated cause