Group III Function: Elevation and abduction of arm
Group III Function: Elevation and abduction of arm is a VA-ratable condition under diagnostic code 5303 in the Shoulder Girdle Muscles category. Maximum rating: 40%.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 40% | Severe muscle injury: Through and through or deep penetrating wound with shattering bone fracture or open comminuted fracture with extensive debridement, prolonged infection, loss of deep fascia or muscle substance |
| 30% | Moderately severe muscle injury: Through and through or deep penetrating wound by high velocity missile with debridement, prolonged infection, sloughing of soft parts and intermuscular scarring |
| 10% | Moderate muscle injury: Through and through wound with debridement or prolonged infection, consistent complaints of cardinal signs with objective findings |
| 0% | Slight muscle injury: Simple wound without debridement, brief treatment, good functional results |
Important Notes
Muscle injury rated by severity: slight (0%), moderate (10%), moderately severe (20-30%), severe (30-40%)
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 5303 to understand what symptoms warrant higher ratings.
Quick Links
Related Conditions
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Injury, Muscle Group I
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Injury, Muscle Group II
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