Shoulder Limitation of Motion

DC 5201Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5201

Limited ability to raise your arm. The VA rates shoulder limitation of motion based on how high you can raise your arm, with higher ratings for your 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. This is 40% for the dominant arm, 30% for the non-dominant arm.

What the VA looks for

Arm motion limited to 25 degrees from side
Severe limitation in all planes of motion
Inability to perform most overhead activities

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not specifying whether the affected shoulder is your dominant (major) or non-dominant (minor) arm — the dominant arm receives a higher rating at the 30% and 40% levels.
⚠Not reporting pain and limitations on your worst days — range of motion is measured at the exam, but flare-ups and DeLuca factors can support a higher rating.
⚠Not getting separate evaluations for other shoulder problems — instability, rotator cuff injuries, and impingement may warrant additional ratings under different codes.
⚠Not filing for secondary conditions caused by compensating — opposite shoulder, neck, and upper back problems from overuse of the other arm.

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 Limitation of Motion or rated under the same body system.

Cervical Strain (Neck Pain)

DC 5237·Musculoskeletal·Possible secondary

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

DC 8599-8510·Neurological·Possible secondary

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

DC 9434·Mental Disorders·Possible secondary

Rotator Cuff Tear

DC 5024·Musculoskeletal·Related primary

Lumbar Strain (Low Back Pain)

DC 5237·Musculoskeletal

Knee Limitation of Flexion

DC 5260·Musculoskeletal

Knee Limitation of Extension

DC 5261·Musculoskeletal

Knee Instability (Subluxation)

DC 5257·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

Your arm motion is limited to 25 degrees from your side. This is 40% for the dominant arm, 30% for the non-dominant arm.

What the VA looks for

Arm motion limited to 25 degrees from side
Severe limitation in all planes of motion
Inability to perform most overhead activities

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not specifying whether the affected shoulder is your dominant (major) or non-dominant (minor) arm — the dominant arm receives a higher rating at the 30% and 40% levels.

⚠Not reporting pain and limitations on your worst days — range of motion is measured at the exam, but flare-ups and DeLuca factors can support a higher rating.

⚠Not getting separate evaluations for other shoulder problems — instability, rotator cuff injuries, and impingement may warrant additional ratings under different codes.

⚠Not filing for secondary conditions caused by compensating — opposite shoulder, neck, and upper back problems from overuse of the other arm.