Essential tremor (ET) is a neurological condition that leads to uncontrollable shaking, most notably in the hands. While many believe that tremors only affect older adults, this condition can affect anyone, including veterans, often exacerbated by service-related stress or injury. For many veterans, essential tremor is not just an occasional inconvenience; it affects daily life and can sometimes make even routine activities feel daunting. It can be frustrating and even embarrassing, especially when it interferes with your ability to work or perform basic tasks.
Though it’s commonly associated with aging, essential tremor can occur at any age, and veterans of all backgrounds may develop this condition, especially if exposed to trauma or stress during their service. Many veterans may not realize that they can receive compensation for essential tremor if it is connected to their military service. Understanding how VA disability ratings for essential tremor work is crucial to getting the benefits you deserve
As Dr. John Stevens, a neurologist, points out, “The shaking from essential tremor can be frustrating as it often interferes with simple daily tasks, such as holding a glass of water or eating. It’s a condition that progressively worsens and can seriously impact your quality of life.”
Essential Tremor VA Ratings: Overview
| Key Point | Details |
|---|---|
| What is Essential Tremor? | A neurological disorder that causes uncontrollable shaking in hands, head, voice, or torso. |
| Rating Method | Rated by analogy under DC 8515 (paralysis of the median nerve). Ratings range from 10% to 70%. |
| Service Connection | Can be established through direct, secondary, or aggravation connections. |
| C&P Exam Requirement | Essential tremor may require a Compensation & Pension exam to evaluate severity and service connection. |
| Severity Impact | The VA assigns ratings based on the severity of the tremors and the dominant vs. nondominant side of the body affected. |
VA Rating for Essential Tremor: How It Works?
The VA does not have a specific diagnostic code for essential tremor as of November 2025. Instead, it is rated under Diagnostic Code 8515, which pertains to the paralysis of the median nerve when hand function is impacted. The ratings range from 10% to 70%, depending on severity, and whether the tremors affect your dominant or nondominant hand.
As Dr. Marie Clinton, a VA claims expert, explains, “Essential tremor is unique in that it is rated by analogy under a similar neurological condition, but the VA considers the impact on functionality. Ratings can vary widely based on how much the tremors interfere with a veteran’s ability to perform everyday tasks.”
How the VA Rates Essential Tremor?
The VA uses the following criteria when rating essential tremors:
- 70% (dominant hand)/60% (nondominant hand): Complete paralysis with significant functional loss, like difficulty making a fist or using the thumb.
- 50% (dominant hand)/40% (nondominant hand): Severe incomplete paralysis.
- 30% (dominant hand)/20% (nondominant hand): Moderate incomplete paralysis.
- 10% (both hands): Mild incomplete paralysis.
Example: If the tremors severely affect a veteran’s ability to grip items with their dominant hand, they could be rated at 50% or 40%, depending on which hand is affected.
Proving Service Connection for Essential Tremor
To qualify for VA disability benefits for essential tremor, you must prove that the condition is connected to your military service. This can be done through:
- Direct Service Connection: When a specific event or injury during service directly caused the tremors.
- Secondary Service Connection: If a service-connected condition, such as PTSD or TBI, triggered or worsened the tremors.
- Service Connection by Aggravation: If an existing tremor worsened due to service-related factors.
As Dr. Clinton emphasizes, “If a veteran can link their tremor to an incident or exposure during service, or if another service-connected disability worsened the tremors, this will be crucial in securing benefits.”
The Importance of a C&P Exam
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam is often required to assess the severity of essential tremors and establish service connection. During this exam, VA doctors will evaluate the tremors, determine their impact on daily activities, and review your medical history.
Attending this exam is essential, as Dr. Stevens explains: “A C&P exam helps the VA understand the extent of your condition and the limitations it places on you, providing important documentation for your claim.”
Final Thought
If you are a veteran suffering from essential tremor, it is important to understand how the VA rates this condition and the documentation needed to prove your service connection. Whether your tremor is direct, secondary, or aggravated by another condition, securing the appropriate VA disability rating will help ensure that you receive the benefits you deserve.
As Dr. Clinton advises, “Veterans must be proactive in gathering their medical records and ensuring their diagnosis is well documented. This will improve their chances of successfully filing for VA disability benefits.”
FAQs
Does the VA rate essential tremors?
Yes, essential tremor is rated by analogy under Diagnostic Code 8515 (paralysis of the median nerve), with ratings ranging from 10% to 70%.
Can I get disability for essential tremors?
Yes, if the tremors are service-connected, you may be eligible for VA disability benefits. Proof of service connection is essential.
What is the diagnostic code for tremors?
Essential tremors are rated under Diagnostic Code 8515, which applies to nerve paralysis, specifically the median nerve affecting hand function.
How do I prove my essential tremor is service-connected?
You can establish service connection through direct, secondary, or aggravation claims, supported by medical evidence linking the tremors to your military service.
