Impairment of the Clavicle or Scapula VA Disability Rating

VA Rating Tiers

How the VA Evaluates Impairment of the Clavicle or Scapula

Diagnostic code 5203 rates impairment of the clavicle or scapula, and both of its evaluations are the same in the major (dominant) and the minor (non-dominant) column. Dislocation of the clavicle or scapula is 20 percent, and so is nonunion with loose movement. Nonunion without loose movement is 10 percent, and so is malunion. The code carries one further instruction: the disability may instead be rated on impairment of function of the contiguous joint, which for the clavicle and scapula means the shoulder codes.

Vetrify editorial estimates informed by VA published claims data (VBA Annual Benefits Report) and the VA rating schedule — not official VA statistics.

Secondary Conditions

Conditions commonly linked to Impairment of the Clavicle or Scapula. Service-connecting a secondary condition can increase your combined rating.

• Shoulder Arthritis

  Chronic instability leads to joint wear

• Rotator Cuff Tear

  Altered mechanics cause tendon damage

Common questions about Impairment of the Clavicle or Scapula

Is Impairment of the Clavicle or Scapula a VA-rated disability?

Yes. The VA rates Impairment of the Clavicle or Scapula under VASRD diagnostic code 5203 (Musculoskeletal System). Damage to the collarbone or shoulder blade that affects shoulder function and stability.

What VA disability rating can I get for Impairment of the Clavicle or Scapula?

Possible VA ratings for Impairment of the Clavicle or Scapula are 20%, 10%. Examples: 20%: Your collarbone or shoulder blade is dislocated, or a break in it never united and the ends move.; 10%: A break that never united but does not move abnormally, or one that healed in a poor position..

What's the typical VA rating awarded for Impairment of the Clavicle or Scapula?

Vetrify estimates the typical rating awarded for Impairment of the Clavicle or Scapula at around 10%, based on VA claims data and the rating schedule. An estimated 2,200 veterans are service-connected for Impairment of the Clavicle or Scapula. Estimated approval outlook: Moderate – depends on confirming imaging and sh…

What evidence helps prove Impairment of the Clavicle or Scapula for VA disability?

Strong evidence for a Impairment of the Clavicle or Scapula claim includes: Imaging showing the clavicle or scapula fracture or dislocation.; A VA exam specifically documenting joint instability or movement limits.; An orthopedic specialist's report..

What mistakes should veterans avoid when claiming Impairment of the Clavicle or Scapula?

Common pitfalls when filing for Impairment of the Clavicle or Scapula: No imaging to support a claimed dislocation or deformity.; Filing based only on shoulder pain without the structural findings this code requires..

What conditions are commonly secondary to Impairment of the Clavicle or Scapula?

Conditions often service-connected as secondary to Impairment of the Clavicle or Scapula include: Shoulder Arthritis, Rotator Cuff Tear. Filing for secondary conditions can increase a veteran's combined VA rating.

Official sources

1. 38 CFR § 4.71a — Schedule of ratings — musculoskeletal system (Diagnostic Code 5203)

Rating criteria on this page are an educational summary of the cited regulation — the eCFR text is authoritative. See how Vetrify derives its numbers.