C&P Exam Guide

Shoulder C&P Exam

Shoulder exams evaluate rotator cuff injuries, impingement, instability, and arthritis. Range of motion is the primary measurement — specifically flexion and abduction. The examiner also tests for pain, weakness, fatigability on repetitive use, and flare-up impact. Dominant vs. non-dominant arm affects the rating level.

DBQ: DBQ - Shoulder and Arm Conditions
Exam type: In-person (physical examination required)
Typical duration: 20-30 minutes

What the Examiner Looks For

Range of motion (flexion, abduction, internal/external rotation), pain on motion and where it begins, repetitive-use testing (3 repetitions minimum), flare-up frequency and additional limitation during flares, instability/dislocation history, functional loss in daily activities, and whether dominant or non-dominant arm is affected.

Related Diagnostic Codes

DC 5200
Scapulohumeral articulation, ankylosis
DC 5201
Arm, limitation of motion
DC 5202
Humerus, other impairment
DC 5203
Clavicle or scapula, impairment

General Tips for Every C&P Exam

📝Be honest — do not exaggerate or minimize.
📝Describe your WORST days, not your best.
📝Focus on how the condition impacts your daily life and ability to work.
📝Keep a symptom journal or diary before your exam.
📝Review the DBQ for your condition beforehand.
📝Arrive early and bring all relevant records.
📝You can bring a support person (spouse, friend).
📝The exam is for evaluation, not treatment — do not expect prescriptions.
📝The examiner is not your doctor — they report findings to the VA.
📝If you disagree with the exam results, you can request a new exam.

✅ DO

⚠️ Critical tip
Tell the examiner which arm is dominant — rating percentages differ.
⚠️ Critical tip
Describe your worst flare-ups: how often, how long, and what you cannot do during them.
⚠️ Critical tip
Demonstrate pain honestly during range of motion — do not push through pain silently.
Mention overhead reaching problems, difficulty sleeping on that side, and carrying limitations.

❌ DON'T

Do not stretch or warm up before the exam — you want baseline measurements.
Do not take extra pain medication before the exam that you do not normally take.

📋 BRING

MRI or imaging reports of the shoulder.
Physical therapy records showing progress or lack thereof.
Surgical records if you had rotator cuff repair or other shoulder surgery.

🔍 EXPECT

⚠️ Critical tip
Goniometer measurements of range of motion in multiple planes.
Repetitive-use testing (at least 3 reps of each motion).
Strength testing and instability checks (apprehension test, etc.).

This information is for educational purposes only. It is not legal or medical advice. Every veteran's situation is unique. Consider consulting with a Veterans Service Organization (VSO) or VA-accredited attorney for personalized guidance.