Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)
Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis), rated under the VA as ankylosis of the shoulder (DC 5200), applies when the shoulder joint cannot move or is severely restricted. The rating depends on the position at which the arm is frozen and differs for the dominant vs. non-dominant arm. This is separate from regular shoulder ROM limitation and generally yields higher ratings since the joint is essentially locked. If a veteran also has other shoulder conditions (ROM limitation, dislocations), they cannot receive separate ratings for both ankylosis and those conditions - the veteran receives whichever rating is highest.
VA Rating Levels
Joint is fixed (frozen) but arm can be raised to at least 60 degrees (favorable position). Dominant receives 30%, non-dominant receives 20%.
Joint is frozen between 25 and 60 degrees of abduction. Dominant receives 40%, non-dominant receives 30%.
Joint is frozen at 25 degrees or less of abduction (unfavorable position). Dominant receives 50%, non-dominant receives 40%.
Exam Tips & Key Evidence
- →Ankylosis means the joint cannot move. If the shoulder still has some movement, it would be rated under ROM limitation (DC 5201) rather than ankylosis.
- →The rating depends on the position at which the arm is frozen. A more unfavorable position (arm fixed closer to the body) results in a higher rating.
- →If the veteran is ambidextrous, the affected limb will be considered dominant.
- →The amputation rule applies: the total combined rating for the shoulder, arm, and hand cannot exceed what would be awarded for an amputation.
- →If the condition eventually requires a total shoulder replacement, it would be re-rated under DC 5051, which includes a temporary 100% rating for 13 months post-surgery.
Commonly Related Conditions
38 CFR Reference
38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5200