VA Disability Rating for Shoulder Condition (Limited Motion / Impingement)
Rated 20–40% on the dominant side by degree of limited motion. Rotator cuff and impingement claims fit here.
DC 5201 rates limited arm motion at the shoulder. Ratings differ by dominant vs non-dominant arm. Instability, ankylosis, and surgical residuals have separate codes (5202, 5200, 5203). File with objective range-of-motion evidence and MRI findings.
Rating tiers + 2026 monthly compensation
| Rating | Monthly (2026, single vet) | Criteria (summary) |
|---|---|---|
| 20% | $356.66 | Motion limited to shoulder level (about 90° abduction/flexion) — dominant or non-dominant. |
| 30% | $552.47 | Motion limited to midway between side and shoulder level — dominant arm (25° for non-dominant also triggers 20%). |
| 40% | $795.84 | Motion limited to 25° from side (dominant arm only; non-dominant max for DC 5201 is 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 shoulder condition (limited motion / impingement)
- C&P exam with goniometer for flexion + abduction.
- MRI documenting rotator cuff tears, labrum damage, or impingement.
- Record which arm is dominant — it affects the max rating.
- Note post-service surgery if any — does not defeat service connection.
Common secondary conditions
- +Cervical spine strain (from altered posture)
- +Opposite shoulder (overcompensation)
- +Elbow / wrist (altered upper-limb mechanics)
File these separately. VA rates each service-connected condition independently and combines them via § 4.25.
Nexus tips
- Document in-service events: heavy lifting, overhead work, parachute landings, weapons firing.
- Chronic impingement in aviators, mechanics, and infantry is well-documented.
Frequently asked
What counts as "shoulder level" for rating?
Approximately 90° of abduction (arm horizontal, straight out to the side). Below that = limited to shoulder level = 20% rating.
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.