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Evidence checklist

Rotator Cuff Tear

DC 502438 CFR § 4.71aMusculoskeletal

Evidence strength

Mark what you already have below and your evidence strength appears here.

Target
Saved locally
01

Specialist opinion

Highest value0 of 2 collected
Orthopedic evaluation with shoulder range of motion and rotator cuff testingCritical

Examination documenting shoulder flexion, abduction, internal and external rotation in degrees, rotator cuff muscle testing (strength and pain), and special tests (drop arm, empty can, Gerber lift-off).

Private provider · independent opinion
Nexus opinion linking rotator cuff tear to service ("at least as likely as not")Critical

A medical opinion connecting your rotator cuff tear to in-service injury, repetitive overhead duties, heavy lifting, or a fall during military service.

Private provider · independent opinion
02

Treatment records

0 of 3 collected
MRI confirming rotator cuff tear (partial or full thickness)Critical

MRI documenting the tear type (partial vs. full thickness), which tendons are involved (supraspinatus, infraspinatus, subscapularis, teres minor), tear size, and degree of muscle atrophy or retraction.

VA or private records · written request
Surgical records (if rotator cuff repair was performed)

Operative reports from arthroscopic or open rotator cuff repair, including tear size, repair technique, and any additional procedures (acromioplasty, biceps tenodesis).

VA or private records · written request
Documentation of dominant vs. non-dominant armCritical

Medical records specifying which shoulder is affected and which arm is dominant. The major extremity receives a higher rating.

VA or private records · written request
03

Lay statements

0 of 2 collected
Buddy statement from spouse, family, or fellow service member

A written statement from someone who can describe observable symptoms and how your condition affects daily life.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
Personal statement describing symptoms and functional impact

Your own written account of how this condition affects your daily activities, work, and relationships. Describe your worst days.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
04

Benefits questionnaire

0 of 1 collected
Completed DBQ Shoulder and Arm ConditionsCritical

Standardized form capturing shoulder range of motion in all planes, rotator cuff findings, pain, and functional limitations.

Provider-completed · VA DBQ formHow to get this →
05

Service records

0 of 1 collected
Service treatment records (STRs)Critical

Military medical records showing in-service treatment, complaints, or injuries related to this condition.

NPRC / milConnect · SF-180
Condition guideRating criteria and what VA looks forC&P exam prepWhat the examiner will askBuddy statement builderGuided VA Form 21-10210

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