VA Disability Rating for Rotator Cuff Tear / Tendinopathy
Rated by limitation of shoulder motion (DC 5201). 20% / 30% / 40% based on how high you can lift the arm.
Rotator cuff conditions are generally rated under DC 5201 (limitation of arm motion), with severity based on the degree to which arm elevation is restricted (measured against the shoulder level). Often combined with DJD (5003) of the shoulder if arthritis is present on imaging.
Rating tiers + 2026 monthly compensation
| Rating | Monthly (2026, single vet) | Criteria (summary) |
|---|---|---|
| 20% | $356.66 | Arm motion limited to shoulder level (~90°). Same dominant or minor. |
| 30% | $552.47 | Arm motion limited to midway between side and shoulder level (~45°). Dominant: 30%; minor: 20%. |
| 40% | $795.84 | Arm motion limited to 25° from side. Dominant: 40%; minor: 30%. |
Dollar amounts reflect the 2.5% COLA effective 2025-12-01 for single veterans with no dependents. Add spouse + children for 30%+ ratings via the estimator.
What this means in dollars
- →At 20%: $356.66/mo · $4,280/year, tax-free
- →At 30%: $552.47/mo · $6,630/year, tax-free
- →At 40%: $795.84/mo · $9,550/year, tax-free
How to get rated for rotator cuff tear / tendinopathy
- MRI confirming rotator cuff pathology (tear, tendinopathy, impingement).
- Goniometer measurement of arm flexion / abduction (normal 0–180°).
- Document repetitive-use loss — additional disability after repetition under DeLuca.
- If post-surgical, document any residual weakness or instability.
Common secondary conditions
- +Cervical strain
- +Elbow strain (compensation)
File these separately. VA rates each service-connected condition independently and combines them via § 4.25.
Nexus tips
- Heavy lifting, ruck-marching with body armor, parachute jumps, and MOS-specific tasks (gunner, mechanic) all support rotator cuff nexus.
- In-service shoulder injury notes are gold — request your full STRs.
Frequently asked
I had rotator cuff surgery in the military. What rating should I expect?
Post-surgical residuals are rated by remaining motion limitation under 5201, plus any DJD under 5003. If shoulder is unstable (recurrent dislocation), file under DC 5202 (humerus impairment) which can rate higher.
Ready to act on this?
Get a full rating estimate across your conditions, or draft the nexus letter your doctor needs to sign.
Related conditions
This page summarizes public rating criteria from 38 CFR Part 4. It is not legal or medical advice. Actual VA ratings depend on C&P exam findings, records review, and rater discretion.