How does DoD handle radiculopathy ratings during a back MED board?

During a DoD Medical Evaluation Board (MEB), radiculopathy secondary to a spinal condition is rated separately from the underlying back disability, using the VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities (VASRD) as mandated by law, with each service’s Physical Evaluation Board (PEB) applying these rules. Your back condition (e.g., lumbosacral or cervical strain) will be rated under the appropriate diagnostic code (DC) such as 5237 for intervertebral disc syndrome or 5242 for degenerative arthritis, typically based on range of motion measurements per **38 CFR §4.71a**. The resulting radiculopathy (sciatica, femoral, etc.) is then separately rated under the nerve formula in **38 CFR §4.124a**, using DCs like 8520 (sciatic nerve) or 8510 (femoral nerve), with ratings based on the severity of paralysis (incomplete, mild, moderate, or severe) and whether it is bilateral. Critically, the DoD will only rate conditions that render you unfit for continued service, while the VA rates all service-connected conditions for compensation; this often results in a combined DoD rating for unfitting conditions (e.g., your back *and* the associated radiculopathy if both are unfitting) that is lower than your overall VA rating. Your actionable next steps are: 1) Ensure your MEB narrative summary (NARSUM) explicitly documents the diagnosis, severity, and functional impairment of your radiculopathy, 2) Obtain a precise nerve conduction study (NCS/EMG) to objectively substantiate the diagnosis, and 3) Consult with your assigned PEBLO and consider legal counsel from the Office of Servicemembers’ Counsel to argue for the unfitting nature of the radiculopathy if it significantly impacts your military duties, as established in case law like *DeLuca v. Brown* which allows for consideration of functional loss. *This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice; consult with your PEBLO and a veterans’ law attorney for guidance specific to your case.*