Shoulder replacement (prosthesis) DC 5051
VA rates it under diagnostic code 5051 in 38 CFR 4.71a. Body system: Arms & hands.
Also searched as: shoulder replacement.
How VA rates it
The schedule allows 9 rating levels for this code: 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, and 100%. VA picks the level whose criteria best match your symptoms and records.
It affects one arm, so each side is rated on its own. When both sides are rated, VA adds the bilateral factor (38 CFR 4.26).
Source: 38 CFR 4.71a on eCFR. Read the full criteria there before you file.
Rating levels and criteria
The schedule rates this as DC 5200 (Scapulohumeral articulation, ankylosis of) or DC 5203 (Clavicle or scapula, impairment of).
| Rating | What the schedule says |
|---|---|
| 100% | For 1 year following implantation of prosthesis |
| 60%50% minor | With chronic residuals consisting of severe, painful motion or weakness in the affected extremity |
| 30%20% minor | Minimum rating |
Where two ratings are shown, the first is for your major (dominant) arm and the second for the minor arm (38 CFR 4.69).
Criteria text from 38 CFR 4.71a, eCFR as of November 10, 2026. The eCFR is the official source if anything here differs.
Prosthetic replacement of the shoulder joint:
With intermediate degrees of residual weakness, pain or limitation of motion, rate by analogy to diagnostic codes 5200 and 5203.
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Rating schedule data as of November 10, 2026. Secondary and presumptive links checked November 13, 2026.
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