Diagnostic Code 5051 · 38 CFR §4.71a
A shoulder replacement, also known as shoulder arthroplasty, involves replacing the damaged parts of the shoulder joint with artificial components. This surgery is performed when shoulder arthritis, fractures, or other conditions cause severe pain and loss of function that cannot be managed with conservative treatment. VA provides a 100 percent temporary rating for one year after the surgery, then rates the chronic residuals based on how well the replacement functions. Veterans may need shoulder replacement due to injuries sustained during service, degenerative changes from years of heavy use, or progression of a service-connected shoulder condition.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | |
| 60% | |
| 50% | |
| 30% |
Surgical records documenting the shoulder replacement procedure, Evidence connecting the shoulder condition requiring replacement to military service, Post-surgical range of motion measurements, Documentation of chronic pain and functional limitations after the replacement, Records indicating which shoulder is on the dominant side