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Common Shoulder Injuries Veterans Face and How They’re Rated by the VA

Shoulder injuries are a frequent issue for Veterans, often caused by repetitive stress or traumatic events during service. Understanding how the VA rates these injuries is essential to receiving the proper disability compensation. The VA disability rating for shoulder injuries is based on the severity of the condition, range of motion, and functional limitations. 

Common Shoulder Injuries Veterans Face

  • Rotator Cuff Tears: Damage to the muscles and tendons in the shoulder, limiting mobility and causing pain. 
  • Shoulder Dislocations: Recurrent dislocations can lead to chronic instability and joint damage. 
  • Arthritis: Degeneration of shoulder cartilage, leading to chronic pain and stiffness. 

How the VA Rates Shoulder Pain and Injuries 

The VA uses Diagnostic Codes to determine disability ratings for shoulder injuries. Ratings can range from 10% to 50%, depending on the extent of the injury and its impact on mobility. 

  • Limited Range of Motion (Diagnostic Code 5201): Ratings for limited shoulder motion range from 20% to 40% based on the degree of restriction. 
  • Instability or Dislocations (Diagnostic Code 5202): Veterans with recurrent shoulder dislocations can receive ratings from 20% to 50% depending on the frequency and severity. 
  • Arthritis (Diagnostic Code 5003): Degenerative arthritis is typically rated at 10% to 20%, based on how much it limits joint function. 

Filing a VA Disability Claim for Shoulder Injuries 

To receive a proper VA disability rating for shoulder injuries, Veterans should gather comprehensive medical evidence, including diagnostic tests (e.g., MRIs) and physician evaluations. A Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) can be helpful to provide detailed information about the condition.  

Appealing a Low Rating 

If the VA assigns a rating that seems too low, Veterans can appeal the decision. Submitting new evidence, such as updated medical records or further documentation of how the injury limits daily activities, can strengthen the appeal. 

Securing the Right VA Rating for Shoulder Injuries 

Shoulder injuries can have a significant impact on Veterans’ quality of life, and securing the correct VA rating is essential for receiving the compensation deserved. Veterans dealing with shoulder injuries should ensure that their claim includes thorough documentation of the injury’s impact on their mobility and overall functionality. For assistance with claims or appeals, contact Berry Law today for guidance. 

Berry Law

The attorneys at Berry Law are dedicated to helping injured Veterans. With extensive experience working with VA disability claims, Berry Law can help you with your disability appeals.

This material is for informational purposes only. It does not create an attorney-client relationship between the Firm and the reader, and does not constitute legal advice. Legal advice must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case, and the contents of this blog are not a substitute for legal counsel.

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