Musculoskeletal · DC 5200–5203

Shoulder and Arm

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Shoulder conditions are rated differently depending on whether the issue is ankylosis (fusion/frozen shoulder), limitation of motion, an impairment of the humerus itself (dislocation, nonunion, malunion), or an impairment of the clavicle/scapula, each has its own diagnostic code and different rating ceiling.

Common Filing Mistake

Ratings differ for the "major" (dominant) vs. "minor" (non-dominant) arm, using the wrong one changes the percentage. A shoulder claimed generically as "pain" instead of identifying which specific impairment applies (ankylosis vs. limitation of motion vs. humerus impairment) can end up rated under the wrong, lower-ceiling code.

Diagnostic Codes
  • DC 5200Scapulohumeral articulation, ankylosis of
  • DC 5201Arm, limitation of motion of
  • DC 5202Humerus, other impairment of
  • DC 5203Clavicle or scapula, impairment of
Rating Criteria
RatingCriteria
50 / 40%DC 5200 — Ankylosis, unfavorable: abduction limited to 25° from side (major/minor)
40 / 30%DC 5200 — Ankylosis, intermediate between favorable and unfavorable
30 / 20%DC 5200 — Ankylosis, favorable: abduction to 60°, can reach mouth and head
40 / 30%DC 5201 — Limitation of motion: flexion/abduction limited to 25° from side
30 / 20%DC 5201 — Limitation of motion: midway between side and shoulder level (limited to 45°)
20 / 20%DC 5201 — Limitation of motion: at shoulder level (limited to 90°)
80 / 70%DC 5202 — Loss of head of humerus (flail shoulder)
60 / 50%DC 5202 — Nonunion of humerus (false flail joint)
50 / 40%DC 5202 — Fibrous union of humerus
20 / 20%DC 5203 — Dislocation, or nonunion with loose movement, of clavicle or scapula
Special Rules
  • "Major" refers to the dominant arm, "minor" to the non-dominant arm, ratings are listed as Major / Minor throughout.
  • DC 5203 (clavicle/scapula impairment) can alternatively be rated based on impairment of function of the contiguous joint, whichever is higher.
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Sourced from 38 CFR §§ 4.71a / 4.130. This is a reference aid, not a rating decision, your actual rating depends on the medical evidence in your specific case and your C&P exam findings. Rules can be amended, verify current text at eCFR.gov or with an accredited VSO before relying on this for a specific claim.