Shoulder - Limitation of Range of Motion
Shoulder limitation of range of motion is rated under Diagnostic Code 5201 based on how high the veteran can raise their arm (abduction or flexion). Ratings differ for the dominant and non-dominant arm. Veterans will not receive separate ratings if both abduction and flexion are affected; the higher measurement determines the rating. For veterans who are ambidextrous, the affected limb is considered dominant. Examiners and raters are required to consider flare-ups when measuring ROM.
VA Rating Levels
Arm motion limited to shoulder level (90 degrees) or less. This is 20% for both dominant and non-dominant arms.
Dominant arm: motion limited to no more than 45 degrees (midway between side and shoulder level). Non-dominant arm rates at 20%.
Dominant arm: motion limited to 25 degrees or less from the side. Non-dominant arm rates at 30%.
Exam Tips & Key Evidence
- →Ratings are different depending on whether it's your dominant or non-dominant arm. If you're ambidextrous, the VA considers the affected limb to be the dominant one.
- →The VA won't give you separate ratings for limited abduction and limited flexion of the same shoulder. They'll use whichever measurement produces the higher rating.
- →If you have a shoulder dislocation that doesn't affect your range of motion, you can actually have separate ratings for both the dislocation and the ROM limitation.
- →For the shoulder specifically, pain with motion alone is enough to warrant a minimum 20% rating.
- →Always mention your flare-ups to the examiner. They're required to estimate your range of motion on your worst day.
Commonly Related Conditions
38 CFR Reference
38 CFR 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5201