Shoulder Impingement Syndrome

DC 5203Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5203

A condition where the tendons and bursa in your shoulder get pinched when you raise your arm, causing pain. The VA rates impingement under the clavicle impairment code based on whether you have malunion, nonunion, or dislocation.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on how much it affects your ability to work and carry out daily activities. The examiner will focus on the functional limitations your condition causes, not just the diagnosis itself.

Diagnostic code

DC 5203

Rating range

10% – 20%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5203. 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

You have nonunion of the clavicle or scapula with loose movement, or you have dislocation of the clavicle or scapula. This rating applies to both the dominant and non-dominant arm.

What the VA looks for

Nonunion with loose movement documented
Dislocation of clavicle or scapula
Imaging showing displacement or instability
Functional limitation documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Shoulder impingement is often better rated under DC 5201 (limitation of motion) if your range of motion is significantly limited — ask the examiner to measure all planes of motion.
⚠Not documenting rotator cuff involvement — a rotator cuff tear or tendinopathy may warrant a separate or higher rating.
⚠Not reporting that the affected shoulder is your dominant arm — some codes provide higher ratings for the major extremity.
⚠Missing secondary conditions — shoulder impingement can lead to cervical spine problems, opposite shoulder overuse, and depression from chronic pain.

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 Shoulder Impingement Syndrome 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 5203

Rating range

10% – 20%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have nonunion of the clavicle or scapula with loose movement, or you have dislocation of the clavicle or scapula. This rating applies to both the dominant and non-dominant arm.

What the VA looks for

Nonunion with loose movement documented
Dislocation of clavicle or scapula
Imaging showing displacement or instability
Functional limitation documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Shoulder impingement is often better rated under DC 5201 (limitation of motion) if your range of motion is significantly limited — ask the examiner to measure all planes of motion.

⚠Not documenting rotator cuff involvement — a rotator cuff tear or tendinopathy may warrant a separate or higher rating.

⚠Not reporting that the affected shoulder is your dominant arm — some codes provide higher ratings for the major extremity.

⚠Missing secondary conditions — shoulder impingement can lead to cervical spine problems, opposite shoulder overuse, and depression from chronic pain.