How the VA Rates Shoulder Injuries in 2026
The VA rates shoulder injuries under diagnostic codes DC 5200–5203, primarily measuring range of motion in forward flexion, abduction, and rotation, with most veterans receiving 10% to 30%.
Shoulder conditions are among the most common VA disability claims filed by veterans. Whether you tore your rotator cuff during training, developed impingement syndrome from repetitive overhead work, or suffered a labral tear from a fall or heavy lift, the VA has a structured rating system for shoulder impairments.
Shoulder Diagnostic Codes: DC 5200–5203
The VA uses four primary diagnostic codes to rate shoulder conditions, each focused on a different aspect of shoulder anatomy or function.
DC 5200 – Scapulohumeral Ankylosis
Ankylosis means the joint is fused or immovable. DC 5200 covers complete loss of shoulder motion.
- Major arm, favorable position: 40%
- Minor arm, favorable position: 30%
- Major arm, unfavorable or intermediate position: 50%
- Minor arm, unfavorable position: 40%
"Favorable position" means the arm is fixed at the side in a functional position; "unfavorable" means it is fixed in an abducted or elevated position that impairs function more severely.
DC 5201 – Arm Limitation of Motion
DC 5201 is the most commonly used shoulder code. It rates limitations of the arm at the shoulder joint based on how high you can raise your arm.
| Rating | Major Arm Limitation | Minor Arm Limitation |
|---|---|---|
| 20% | Motion limited to 25° from the side | Motion limited to 25° from the side |
| 20% | Motion limited to 45° from the side | — |
| 10% | Motion limited to midway between side and shoulder level (about 90°) | Motion limited to midway (about 90°) |
| 20% | — | Motion limited to 45° from side |
Normal shoulder forward flexion and abduction are both 180°. If you can raise your arm to 90° (shoulder level), you qualify for 10%. If you can only raise it to 45°, you qualify for 20%.
DC 5202 – Other Impairment of the Humerus
DC 5202 covers fractures, malunion, nonunion, and other bone-level humerus damage. Ratings range from 10% to 50% depending on the type of impairment and whether the arm is the major or minor limb.
DC 5203 – Clavicle or Scapula Impairment
DC 5203 covers dislocations, fractures, or resections of the clavicle or scapula. Ratings range from 10% to 30% for the major arm.
Major vs. Minor Arm: Why It Matters
The VA reduces shoulder ratings by one level when the affected arm is the non-dominant (minor) arm, because functional loss is considered less severe for the arm you do not primarily use.
Under 38 C.F.R. § 4.68, "major" means the dominant arm and "minor" means the non-dominant arm. If you are right-handed and have a right shoulder injury, it is your major arm. If you are ambidextrous, the VA treats either arm as major.
This distinction can mean the difference between 20% and 10% — or between 30% and 20% — so documenting your dominant hand in your claim is important.
Common Service-Connected Shoulder Conditions
Rotator Cuff Tear
Rotator cuff tears (ICD-10: M75.1) are extremely common in veterans who performed heavy lifting, overhead tasks, or physical training. They are rated under DC 5201 based on motion limitation, or DC 5200 for severe ankylosis. MRI is the gold-standard evidence; X-ray alone typically will not confirm a tear.
SLAP Tear (Superior Labrum Anterior to Posterior)
SLAP tears affect the cartilage ring inside the shoulder socket. They are also rated under DC 5201 or 5202 depending on severity. ICD-10: S43.43 (SLAP lesion). An MRI arthrogram provides the clearest imaging evidence.
Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
Impingement occurs when the rotator cuff tendons are pinched under the acromion. Rated under DC 5201. See the VA shoulder impingement page for more on this specific condition.
Glenohumeral Arthritis
Degenerative joint disease in the shoulder, often secondary to a prior rotator cuff tear or labral injury, is ratable under DC 5200 or 5201. ICD-10: M19.011 (primary osteoarthritis, right shoulder).
Combining Multiple Shoulder Conditions
You generally cannot receive separate ratings for multiple conditions affecting the same shoulder under the same DC — the VA applies the rating for the most disabling condition and does not "pyramid" benefits. However, if you have a separate neurological condition secondary to the shoulder injury (like radiculopathy of the arm), that may be rated separately.
For cervical radiculopathy extending into the arm from a neck condition secondary to shoulder mechanics, file a separate claim under the brachial plexus diagnostic codes.
Evidence That Wins Shoulder Claims
- MRI report: Documents the specific tear, its size, and structural damage — far superior to X-ray for soft tissue
- C&P goniometer measurements: The examiner physically measures your arc of motion; your ROM on your worst days matters most
- Service treatment records: Any documentation of shoulder complaints, injury reports, or profiles during service
- Buddy statements: Peers who witnessed falls, heavy lifting injuries, or physical limitations
- Private nexus letter: Especially useful if the VA C&P examiner provides an inadequate opinion
Under 38 C.F.R. § 4.59, painful motion counts — even if your joint moves through a full arc, pain with motion is rated at the minimum compensable rating for that joint (10% for the shoulder).
2026 Monthly Compensation Estimates
A 10% shoulder rating pays approximately $175.51/month for a veteran with no dependents. A 20% rating pays approximately $346.95/month, and 30% pays approximately $537.42/month (2026 rates, subject to annual COLA adjustment).
Use the VA disability rating calculator to see how your shoulder rating combines with other conditions and your total monthly compensation.
Filing Your Shoulder Claim
File on VA Form 21-526EZ. List each affected shoulder as a separate contention. Note whether it is your major or minor arm. Attach MRI reports, service medical records showing the injury, and any private nexus opinion. For a full overview of the VA disability system, see the VA disability benefits guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common VA rating for a shoulder injury?
Most veterans receive 10% or 20% for shoulder conditions under DC 5201. A 10% rating typically reflects limitation of arm motion to about shoulder level, while 20% reflects more severe restriction closer to the side of the body.
Does it matter which shoulder is injured?
Yes. The VA assigns higher ratings to injuries of the major (dominant) arm than the minor (non-dominant) arm under 38 C.F.R. § 4.68. A motion limitation that earns 20% for the dominant arm may only earn 10% for the non-dominant arm.
Can I get rated for both a rotator cuff tear and shoulder arthritis?
Generally, the VA rates the single most disabling shoulder condition and does not stack ratings for multiple conditions in the same joint under the anti-pyramiding rule. File both conditions, but expect one controlling rating.
Is MRI required for a VA shoulder claim?
MRI is not legally required, but it is the strongest evidence for soft-tissue injuries like rotator cuff and labral tears. An X-ray alone typically cannot confirm these injuries. If the VA does not order an MRI, request one through your treating physician.
What if my shoulder pain is from my neck?
If a cervical spine condition is causing referred pain or radiculopathy into the shoulder and arm, you may have separate ratable conditions — one for the cervical spine and one for the peripheral nerve involvement. These are rated under different DCs and can be combined.
Can I get TDIU for a shoulder injury alone?
Yes, if your shoulder disability prevents you from maintaining substantially gainful employment. TDIU (Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability) pays at the 100% rate even if your combined rating is lower. It requires a single disability rated at 60% or more, or a combined rating of 70% with at least one condition at 40%.
Estimate your shoulder rating and combined compensation today. The Rank and Pay VA Disability Rating Calculator shows exactly how your shoulder condition combines with other ratings and what you can expect to receive monthly in 2026.