40%
Official criteria
Major arm: flexion and/or abduction limited to 25° from sidePlain-language summary
The dominant arm is limited to 25 degrees from the side.
Arm limitation of motion
VA evaluates flexion and/or abduction limits at 25, 45, and 90 degrees, with different major- and minor-arm percentages at the more severe levels.
Musculoskeletalshoulder limitationlimited arm motion
Official schedule
Percentage levels and criteria
Plain-language summaries explain the text; they do not decide whether any level applies.
30%
Official criteria
Minor arm: flexion and/or abduction limited to 25° from side; or major arm: flexion and/or abduction limited to 45°Plain-language summary
This result depends on both the measured limit and whether the affected arm is dominant.
20%
Official criteria
Minor arm: flexion and/or abduction limited to 45°; or major or minor arm: flexion and/or abduction limited to 90°Plain-language summary
This result applies to the listed minor-arm 45-degree path or either arm at shoulder level.
Source record
Open official eCFR source38 CFR § 4.71a—Schedule of ratings, musculoskeletal system
38 CFR § 4.71a, DC 5201 · Effective Feb 7, 2021 · Reviewed Jul 24, 2026