Dislocation of Clavicle

DC 5203 Shoulder & Arm

Dislocation of Clavicle is a VA-ratable condition under diagnostic code 5203 in the Shoulder & Arm category. Maximum rating: 80%.

Source: 38 CFR § 4.71 - Measurement of ankylosis and joint motion

Rating	Criteria
80%	Loss of head of humerus (flail shoulder)
60%	Nonunion of humerus (false flail joint)
50%	Fibrous union of humerus
30%	Recurrent dislocation at scapulohumeral joint with frequent episodes and guarding of all arm movements
20%	Recurrent dislocation with infrequent episodes and guarding at shoulder level only, or malunion with marked/moderate deformity

Humerus impairment including dislocation and malunion

Filing Tips

Pro Tip: The VA won't connect the dots for you. That's your job. Build the paper trail before you file.

Gather medical evidence showing a current diagnosis of this condition.

Document in-service events, injuries, or exposures that caused or aggravated this condition.

Consider a nexus letter from a medical professional linking your condition to service.

Review the rating criteria for DC 5203 to understand what symptoms warrant higher ratings.

Above insertion of deltoid

DC 5121

Acromioclavicular Separation

DC 5203

Amputation - Below the Point where the Deltoid attaches to the Arm

DC 5122

Amputation - Below the Shoulder, but Above the point where the Deltoid attaches to the Arm

DC 5121

Amputation - Forequarter Amputation

DC 5120

Amputation - From the Shoulder Joint Down

DC 5120

Ankylosis - Shoulder Joint

DC 5200

Arm, limitation of motion

DC 5201