Shoulder
This quiz section covers shoulder(s). The “shoulder” refers to the entire shoulder joint complex, including bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and the joint capsule that allow for arm movement at the shoulder. The VA evaluates shoulder conditions under specific diagnostic codes in the VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities (VASRD), typically within the Musculoskeletal System (38 CFR § 4.71a)
Your shoulder get 1 rating that is based on the worst range of motion for either Flexion or Adduction. If you’ve had a total shoulder joint replacement, you will only be rated based on the replacement, not Flexion or Adduction.
Please read the instructions and review the pictures, then proceed to the quiz questions.
Step 1. Helpful Videos
Please review the video’s that demonstrate the range of motion.
Shoulder Flexion
Lifting you arm in front of you:
With your arm flat to your side (6:00), keep your arm straight and lift it up in front of you to 3:00. How far can you bring your arm up to 3:00 without any pain or discomfort?
Shoulder Adduction
Lifting your are the the side:
With your arm flat to your side (6:00), keep your arm straight and lift it up to the side to 9:00. How far can you bring your arm up to 9:00 without any pain or discomfort?
Shoulder Adduction
Lifting your are the the side:
With your arm flat to your side (6:00), keep your arm straight and lift it up to the side to 9:00. How far can you bring your arm up to 9:00 without any pain or discomfort?
Step 2
Review the Key Factors:
Your shoulder is rating based on forward and sidewise Range of Motion .
- Pain during use or movement
- Weakness, fatigue, or flare-ups
The dominant arm (major) receives higher compensation if impaired - Shoulder replacement = 100% rating for 1 year, then reevaluated
You only can have 1 rating:
- The highest for Flexion or Adduction, or
- Total Joint Replacement
Step 3:
Continue with the quiz for both the right and left shoulder. When completed, you will view the results of your quiz.