Primary service-connected condition

DC 5201 — Arm, limitation of motion of

Also known as: Arm, shoulder pain, shoulder injury, limited shoulder motion, rotator cuff, frozen shoulder, shoulder impingement, dislocated shoulder, shoulder dislocation

Mapped secondary conditions
4

These are commonly claimed secondary connections linked to this primary disability. Use them as a screening tool for conversations with your doctor, VSO, or VA-accredited attorney.

Primary → Secondary

Arm, limitation of motion of → Lumbosacral or cervical strain

5237
Moderate

How the connection is commonly explained

Shoulder conditions often involve compensatory neck strain

Filing tip

File as a secondary claim to DC 5201 (Arm, limitation of motion). Provide medical records showing shoulder conditions often involve compensatory neck strain and request a nexus opinion linking Lumbosacral or cervical strain to your service-connected condition.

Relationship type: Caused by
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Primary → Secondary

Arm, limitation of motion of → Major depressive disorder

9434
Moderate

How the connection is commonly explained

Chronic shoulder pain and activity limitations lead to depression

Filing tip

File as a secondary claim to DC 5201 (Arm, limitation of motion). Provide medical records showing chronic shoulder pain and activity limitations lead to depression and request a nexus opinion linking Major depressive disorder to your service-connected condition.

Relationship type: Caused by
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Primary → Secondary

Arm, limitation of motion of → Sleep Apnea Syndromes

6847
Moderate

How the connection is commonly explained

Shoulder pain disrupts sleep — cannot lie on affected side

Filing tip

File as a secondary claim to DC 5201 (Arm, limitation of motion). Provide medical records showing shoulder pain disrupts sleep — cannot lie on affected side and request a nexus opinion linking Sleep Apnea Syndromes to your service-connected condition.

Relationship type: Caused by
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Primary → Secondary

Arm, limitation of motion of → Upper radicular group, paralysis

8510
Moderate

How the connection is commonly explained

Shoulder conditions can compress nerves in the thoracic outlet area

Filing tip

File as a secondary claim to DC 5201 (Arm, limitation of motion). Provide medical records showing shoulder conditions can compress nerves in the thoracic outlet area and request a nexus opinion linking Upper radicular group, paralysis to your service-connected condition.

Relationship type: Caused by
View condition detail

How to File a Secondary Claim

1. Have your primary condition already service-connected.
2. Get diagnosed with the secondary condition.
3. Get a nexus letter from a doctor linking them.
4. File VA Form 21-526EZ and select the claim as a secondary claim.
5. Attend the C&P exam if one is scheduled.

Disclaimer: Secondary connections shown are based on commonly established medical links. Individual claims require medical evidence. Consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney.