Veterans’ RightsAn independent resource for veterans
← All decisions
Denied

The Veteran's appeal for a higher rating for his service-connected right shoulder disability was denied. The maximum evaluation of 40 percent is the highest allowed under Diagnostic Code 5201, which evaluates limitation of motion of the arm or shoulder.

The deciding factor: The medical evidence did not establish any impairment of the humerus or ankylosis of the right shoulder joint, and the Veteran's symptoms were adequately considered by the current 40 percent rating under Diagnostic Code 5201.

Claimed conditions
acromioclavicular joint osteoarthritis, right shoulder impingement syndrome, rotator cuff tendonitis
How they argued it
Direct service connection
Exposure basis
None
Rating assigned
40%
Decision date
July 11, 2021
Citation
21042033

This is a plain-language summary generated by AI from a public Board of Veterans’ Appeals decision. It can contain errors — always verify against the original. Look up the original decision on VA.gov (opens in a new tab) using citation 21042033.

What this means for you

A denial is a starting point, not the end of the road. You can see why this claim fell short — and, if you are still inside the one-year window, the appeal lanes that may remain open to you.

What you can do next

Related decisions

Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.

Free starter guide for your own claim

Reading this because you were denied or under-rated? Get the plain-English next steps — your appeal options, the deadline that protects you, and how appeals like yours turn out. One email, no spam.

We will only use this to send the guide. No spam, unsubscribe any time. We never sell your information.

We are not the VA. Veterans’ Rights is an independent resource built for veterans. We are not the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, not part of the government, and not endorsed by any government agency.

This is general information, not legal advice. For advice about your own situation, talk to a VA-accredited representative — many help for free.