VA Disability Services for Arm & Shoulder Injuries - Ratings and Benefits
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Tell us how we can support your VA disability claim. Select an option below and our team will contact you with next steps.
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Ratings & Benefits for VA Disability - Arm & Shoulder Injuries in Hyattsville, MD
Survivor Sources – Veteran’s Disability Support Program for Arm & Shoulder Injury Ratings
If you’re a veteran living with a service-connected arm or shoulder injury, understanding how the VA rates your condition is key to securing the benefits you deserve. The rating process can be confusing , but you're not alone. Survivor Sources Inc. helps veterans in Hyattsville, MD navigate the complex world of VA disability ratings and ensures their pain and limitations are fully recognized.
Call for a free 15 min consultation: 301-276-5559 or contact us online to get started.
How Does the VA Rate Arm & Shoulder Injuries?
VA disability ratings for arm and shoulder conditions are based on how much the injury limits your range of motion, strength, function, and ability to perform daily tasks. The VA evaluates both major (dominant) and minor (non-dominant) arms differently when assigning a percentage.
Conditions may be rated under diagnostic codes for:
- Limitation of arm motion (e.g., can’t raise arm above shoulder level)
- Shoulder dislocation or instability
- Degenerative joint disease or arthritis
- Muscle or tendon injuries
- Residuals of fractures, sprains, or impingements
Typical VA Ratings for Arm & Shoulder Injuries
Here’s a general breakdown of how arm and shoulder injuries are commonly rated:
- 10% Rating – Minor pain with motion; slight functional loss
- 20% Rating – Limited motion (can’t lift arm past shoulder level)
- 30% Rating – Marked limitation in range of motion and daily use
- 40%-50%+ Ratings – Severe disability, dislocation, frozen shoulder, or total loss of joint use
Higher ratings may also be awarded when injuries affect both arms or are accompanied by nerve damage or secondary conditions (like rotator cuff tears, neck strain, or cervical radiculopathy).
Can I Get a Higher Rating for Pain or Limited Use?
Yes. Even if your range-of-motion test appears “normal,” you may still be entitled to a higher rating if you experience:
- Pain on motion
- Fatigue or weakness during repetitive use
- Flare-ups that reduce function
- Impairment in work or daily activities
Survivor Sources Inc. helps veterans present a complete and accurate picture of how their injury impacts their life, not just what shows up on an exam.
Appealing a Low Rating or Denied Claim
Many veterans receive ratings that don’t reflect the true extent of their injury. If your claim was denied or you believe your rating is too low, you have the right to appeal — and we can help. Our team assists with:
- Reviewing your VA decision letter
- Collecting new medical evidence and range-of-motion testing
- Filing for secondary service connections (such as nerve involvement or compensating for overuse of the opposite arm)
- Requesting a rating increase based on worsening symptoms
Survivor Sources Inc. – Your Advocate in the VA Rating Process
Our experienced team brings together professionals from medicine, law, and veteran support to guide you through every phase of your VA disability claim. We advocate for:
- Accurate documentation of symptoms and limitations
- Correct use of diagnostic codes and rating criteria
- Increased ratings when symptoms worsen or impact other joints
- Proper consideration of dominant vs. non-dominant arm use
Whether you're filing a new claim or ready to fight for a higher rating, we’re here to help you take the next step.
Your Pain Deserves to Be Acknowledged — Schedule a free consultation
Living with limited arm or shoulder mobility affects more than just your physical health — it affects your livelihood, independence, and peace of mind. At Survivor Sources Inc., we help ensure your rating reflects the reality of your condition.
Call for a free 15 min consultation: 301-276-5559 or contact us online to get started.