Adhesive Capsulitis (Frozen Shoulder)

DC 5201Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5201

Stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint where the capsule thickens and tightens, severely restricting motion. The VA rates adhesive capsulitis based on limitation of arm motion, with higher ratings for the dominant arm.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition primarily based on range-of-motion measurements. During your C&P exam, the examiner will use a goniometer to measure how far you can move the affected joint. Pain, flare-ups, and repetitive-use limitations also factor into the final rating.

Diagnostic code

DC 5201

Rating range

20% – 40%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5201. This guide presents a plain-language summary and is not a substitute for the full regulatory text. Always consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney for case-specific advice.

Rating Levels

Your arm motion is limited to 25 degrees from your side. You can barely raise your arm and have extreme difficulty with almost all activities requiring shoulder use. This is the maximum rating under DC 5201 for the dominant arm; the non-dominant arm is rated at 30 percent.

What the VA looks for

Shoulder abduction or flexion limited to approximately 25 degrees
Near-complete loss of shoulder function documented
Documentation of which arm is dominant
Inability to perform most activities of daily living
MRI or clinical findings confirming severe capsular thickening

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting which arm is your dominant arm — the dominant (major) arm receives a higher rating at the 30% and 40% levels.
⚠Not getting range of motion measured during a flare-up — frozen shoulder often has variable symptoms, and a good day measurement underrepresents the disability.
⚠Not distinguishing adhesive capsulitis from a rotator cuff tear — they have different treatment paths and may warrant separate ratings.
⚠The condition may resolve over time — make sure to document persistent limitation, not just a single episode.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Shoulder and Arm Conditions

View evidence checklist →C&P exam prep guide →See secondary conditions →

Related Conditions

Conditions commonly associated with Adhesive Capsulitis (Frozen Shoulder) or rated under the same body system.

Lumbar Strain (Low Back Pain)

DC 5237·Musculoskeletal

Cervical Strain (Neck Pain)

DC 5237·Musculoskeletal

Knee Limitation of Flexion

DC 5260·Musculoskeletal

Knee Limitation of Extension

DC 5261·Musculoskeletal

Knee Instability (Subluxation)

DC 5257·Musculoskeletal

Plantar Fasciitis (Foot Pain)

DC 5276·Musculoskeletal

Degenerative Arthritis (Osteoarthritis)

DC 5003·Musculoskeletal

Fibromyalgia

DC 5025·Musculoskeletal

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 5201

Rating range

20% – 40%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

Shoulder abduction or flexion limited to approximately 25 degrees
Near-complete loss of shoulder function documented
Documentation of which arm is dominant
Inability to perform most activities of daily living
MRI or clinical findings confirming severe capsular thickening

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting which arm is your dominant arm — the dominant (major) arm receives a higher rating at the 30% and 40% levels.

⚠Not getting range of motion measured during a flare-up — frozen shoulder often has variable symptoms, and a good day measurement underrepresents the disability.

⚠Not distinguishing adhesive capsulitis from a rotator cuff tear — they have different treatment paths and may warrant separate ratings.

⚠The condition may resolve over time — make sure to document persistent limitation, not just a single episode.