Body system: Musculoskeletal SystemRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.71aDBQ: DBQ MUSC Shoulder and arm
DC 5200, scapulohumeral articulation, ankylosis of, is rated by the level below that matches your condition; the dominant (major) arm is rated higher than the non-dominant (minor) arm at the upper levels. The levels: Unfavorable, abduction limited to 25° from side: 50% for the dominant arm, 40% for the non-dominant arm. Intermediate between favorable and unfavorable: 40% for the dominant arm, 30% for the non-dominant arm. Favorable, abduction to 60°, can reach mouth and head: 30% for the dominant arm, 20% for the non-dominant arm.
Rating levels
- 50% — Your shoulder joint is completely fused or locked in place (ankylosis), and you can only lift your arm 25 degrees or less away from your side. This is considered an unfavorable position because your arm is essentially stuck close to your body, severely limiting your ability to reach, lift, or perform most daily activities that require arm movement.
- 40% — Your shoulder joint is completely frozen or fused in a bad position (ankylosis means the joint can't move at all), and you can only lift your arm 25 degrees or less away from your side. This is considered an unfavorable position because your arm is stuck close to your body, severely limiting your ability to reach, lift, or perform daily activities that require arm movement.
- 40% — Your shoulder joint is completely frozen or fused in a position that's somewhat functional but not ideal. The joint allows you to perform some daily activities, but you have significant limitations in reaching, lifting, or moving your arm compared to a completely flexible shoulder. This is more restrictive than a shoulder frozen in the best possible position, but less disabling than one frozen in a poor position that severely limits function.
- 30% — Your shoulder joint is completely frozen and cannot move at all (ankylosis), but it's stuck in a position that's somewhat functional - not the best possible position for daily activities, but not the worst either. You have some ability to use your arm for basic tasks, though with significant limitations compared to normal shoulder movement.
- 30% — Your shoulder joint is completely fused or locked in place (ankylosis), but it's positioned in a way that still allows some useful function. You can lift your arm out to the side up to 60 degrees and you're still able to reach your mouth and head for basic daily activities like eating and grooming.
- 20% — Your shoulder joint is completely fused (ankylosis means the joint cannot move at all), but it's positioned in a way that works well for daily activities. You can still lift your arm out to the side up to 60 degrees and reach your mouth and head for eating, drinking, and personal care.