Shoulder Pain (Arm Limitation of Motion) VA Rating Guide

Overview

Limitation of arm motion at the shoulder commonly resulting from rotator cuff injuries, dislocations, or other shoulder trauma during military service. Rated based on the degree of motion limitation.

• VA Disability Code: 5201
• ICD Code: M25.50
• Category: Musculoskeletal

Rating Percentages & Criteria

40% Rating

Criteria: To 25° from side (major arm)

Examples:

• Severe limitation of dominant arm
• Cannot raise arm above waist level
• Significant functional impairment

30% Rating

Criteria: To 25° from side (minor arm) OR Midway between side and shoulder level (major arm)

Examples:

• Severe limitation of non-dominant arm
• Moderate limitation of dominant arm

20% Rating

Criteria: Midway between side and shoulder level (minor arm) OR At shoulder level (major or minor arm)

Examples:

• Moderate limitation of non-dominant arm
• Can raise arm to shoulder height only

Symptoms & Functional Impact

Common symptoms associated with this condition:

• Shoulder pain with movement
• Limited range of motion
• Weakness in arm
• Difficulty reaching overhead
• Pain at night
• Grinding or popping sensations
• Difficulty with daily tasks
• Muscle atrophy

Evidence Requirements for Your Claim

To support your claim, gather the following evidence:

• Range of motion measurements from C&P exam
• X-rays or MRI showing shoulder damage
• Medical records documenting shoulder problems
• Service treatment records
• Orthopedic evaluations
• Physical therapy records

Secondary Conditions Commonly Connected

This condition often leads to secondary disabilities:

Cervical Strain (Strong Connection)

Shoulder problems often cause compensatory neck strain

Depression (Moderate Connection)

Chronic pain and functional limitations can lead to depression

Sleep Apnea (Moderate Connection)

Shoulder pain can limit sleeping positions and contribute to sleep problems

Compensation & Pension (C&P) Exam Tips

Prepare for your C&P exam with these strategic tips:

• Demonstrate your true range of motion without forcing through pain
• Explain which daily activities are affected
• Note whether dominant or non-dominant arm is affected
• Bring documentation of all shoulder treatments
• Describe pain levels during and after activity

Frequently Asked Questions

Does it matter if my dominant or non-dominant shoulder is affected?

Yes. Limitations of the major (dominant) arm receive higher ratings than the same limitation of the minor (non-dominant) arm.

Can I get separate ratings for different shoulder problems?

Generally the VA will rate all shoulder problems under one code that gives the highest rating, unless distinctly different disabilities exist.

Key Points for Your Claim

When filing for Shoulder Pain (Arm Limitation of Motion):

1. Document everything - Every medical visit, treatment, and symptom counts
2. Get a nexus letter - A medical opinion linking your condition to service is crucial
3. Be thorough - Don't downplay your symptoms in your claim
4. Track progression - Show how the condition has worsened over time
5. Claim secondary conditions - Shoulder Pain (Arm Limitation of Motion) often causes other disabilities

Ready to File Your Claim?

The VA disability system is complex, but you don't have to navigate it alone. We help veterans understand their benefits, gather strong evidence, and maximize their ratings.

Related Rating Guides:

• Cervical Strain VA Rating Guide
• Depression VA Rating Guide
• Sleep Apnea VA Rating Guide