Piriformis Syndrome VA Ratings—Explained!

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If you’re a veteran living with chronic pain, numbness, or limited mobility due to piriformis syndrome, you may be entitled to VA disability compensation—even if there isn’t a dedicated piriformis syndrome VA rating for the condition. 

In this post, we’ll explain how the VA rates piriformis syndrome, the differences between piriformis syndrome and sciatica, how to prove service connection, and more.

Let’s break down everything you need to know to build a strong VA claim for piriformis syndrome.

Summary of Key Points

• Piriformis syndrome compresses the sciatic nerve, causing pain, numbness, and sometimes muscle weakness or paralysis. 

• There is no specific VA rating for piriformis syndrome directly. Instead, it is rated analogously under muscle injury (DC 5318) or sciatic nerve conditions (e.g., DC 8520). 

• A strong VA claim for piriformis syndrome must show service connection, either primary or secondary. 

• A nexus letter, current diagnosis, and documented symptoms are essential for a successful claim. 

What is Piriformis Syndrome?

The piriformis muscle is located in the buttocks and connects the lower spine to the upper thigh. Piriformis syndrome occurs when this muscle compresses the sciatic nerve—the largest nerve in the body. 

The sciatic nerve controls lower leg muscles and provides sensation to the lower back, buttocks, and legs. Compression by the piriformis muscle can lead to pain that radiates down the leg, often mimicking sciatica. 

Piriformis Syndrome Symptoms

Common symptoms include: 

• Pain, numbness, or tingling in the upper leg, hip, or buttocks 

• Increased pain from climbing stairs, walking uphill, or prolonged sitting 

• Reduced range of motion in the hip joint 

Piriformis Syndrome vs. Sciatica

While they share similarities, the cause and origin of these conditions differ: 

Condition	Typical Cause	Common Symptoms
Sciatica	Herniated disc pressing on sciatic nerve	Pain from lower back radiating through legs
Piriformis Syndrome	Trauma, overuse, or repetitive stress (e.g., during basic training)	Pain in buttocks that may radiate down the leg

How the VA Rates Piriformis Syndrome

The VA does not assign a separate diagnostic code for piriformis syndrome. Instead, it’s rated based on the type of impairment it causes: 

VA Disability Rating for Muscle Injuries (DC 5318)

Piriformis syndrome affecting muscle function may be rated under: 38 C.F.R. § 4.73 – Diagnostic Code 5318: Muscle Group XVIII 

Severity	VA Rating
Severe	30%
Moderately Severe	20%
Moderate	10%
Slight	0%

VA Disability Rating for Sciatica (Nerve Impairment)

If piriformis syndrome impacts the sciatic nerve, it may be rated under 38 CFR § 4.124a: 

• DC 8720 – Neuralgia of the sciatic nerve 

• DC 8620 – Neuritis of the sciatic nerve 

• DC 8520 – Paralysis of the sciatic nerve 

DC 8720 – Neuralgia

• Moderate: 20% 

• Mild: 10% 
  (Note: Neuralgia cannot be rated higher than moderate) 

DC 8620 – Neuritis

• Severe w/ muscle atrophy or sensory disturbances: Up to 60% 

• Moderately Severe: 40% 

• Moderate: 20% 

• Mild: 10% 

DC 8520 – Paralysis

Severity	Description	VA Rating
Complete	Foot drop, no movement below knee	80%
Incomplete – Severe w/ muscle atrophy	—	60%
Incomplete – Moderately Severe	—	40%
Incomplete – Moderate	—	20%
Incomplete – Mild	—	10%

How to Establish Service Connection

To qualify for VA disability, you must prove that your piriformis syndrome is directly caused or aggravated by military service. Potential causes include: 

• Trauma to the hip or buttock (falls, impacts, etc.) 

• Repetitive motion injuries from combat, basic training, or overuse 

• Secondary conditions caused by a service-connected injury to the leg, back, or hip 

To establish service connection, you’ll need: 

1. A current medical diagnosis of piriformis syndrome 

2. A diagnosis of a service-connected primary condition (if claiming secondarily) 

3. In-service evidence of injury, trauma, or overuse 

4. A nexus letter from a qualified medical provider explaining the connection 

Pro Tip: You can obtain a Nexus Letter from a qualified provider. The letter’s purpose is to explain that your piriformis syndrome is at least as likely as not due to your military service. 

Filing a VA Claim for Piriformis Syndrome

Here’s how to prepare a strong claim: 

1. Gather all relevant medical records (including a recent piriformis syndrome diagnosis) and other documents, such as “support statements”, and any notes from a physical therapist, or another provider regarding factors that caused or impacted your condition. 

2. Document daily limitations (e.g., pain with sitting, standing, walking, working) 

3. Include evidence of functional impact and related service-connected conditions 

4. Get a nexus letter from a qualified medical provider 

5. Complete and submit VA Form 21-526EZ 

Conclusion

While piriformis syndrome doesn’t have a dedicated diagnostic code, the VA does recognize its disabling effects when supported with the right evidence. Veterans with this condition often experience severe pain and limited mobility that significantly impact their quality of life. 

Understanding the VA’s rating system—whether through muscle injury (DC 5318) or sciatic nerve impairment (DC 8520)—can help you pursue the maximum VA compensation and benefits you’ve earned. 

With the right documentation, medical support, and service connection strategy, you can build a strong VA disability claim and get the compensation you deserve. 

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Is piriformis syndrome a VA disability?

Yes. Although there is technically not a piriformis syndrome VA rating (since it has no unique diagnostic code). Instead, it is rated under sciatic nerve or muscle injury analogously, depending on your symptoms. 

What is the highest rating for piriformis syndrome? 

Up to 30% for muscle injury, or 80% for severe sciatic nerve paralysis under DC 8520. 

Is there a test for piriformis syndrome? 

No specific test exists. Providers typically use physical exams, MRIs, CT scans, or ultrasounds to rule out other conditions and diagnose piriformis syndrome.

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