MusculoskeletalDC 5200-5203

Shoulder Conditions

Shoulder conditions are rated under 38 CFR § 4.71a based on range of motion limitation. The ratings differ for your dominant (major) and non-dominant (minor) arm. Conditions include impingement, rotator cuff tears, labral tears, and arthritis.

VA Rating Levels

20%

Arm motion limited to shoulder level (you can raise your arm to about 90 degrees — straight out to the side, but no higher). Same for both major and minor arm.

30%

Arm motion limited to midway between side and shoulder level (about 45-90 degrees from your body). This is for the major (dominant) arm. Minor arm gets 20%.

40%

Arm motion limited to 25 degrees from your side — you can barely lift your arm at all. Major arm rating. Minor arm gets 30%.

Exam Tips & Key Evidence

→Whether it's your dominant or non-dominant arm matters — tell the examiner which hand you write with
→Rotator cuff injuries are extremely common in veterans — don't skip claiming this
→If you had shoulder surgery, you get a temporary 100% rating during recovery
→Instability and limited motion can sometimes be rated separately (like knees)

Commonly Related Conditions

Neck/Cervical SpineRadiculopathy (Upper Extremity)Arthritis

38 CFR Reference

38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Codes 5200-5203