Get Paid for Your Shoulder Pain: Understanding VA Disability Claims for Veterans

Shoulder Pain

Chronic shoulder pain can significantly impact your life after military service, limiting your mobility, affecting your sleep, and hindering your ability to perform everyday tasks. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) recognizes the prevalence of shoulder injuries among veterans, often stemming from the rigorous physical demands of military duty. The good news is that if your shoulder pain is service-connected, you are likely eligible for VA disability compensation.

At Operation Veteran's Edge, we are committed to helping veterans understand their rights and navigate the complexities of the VA claims process. This comprehensive guide will explore the common causes and symptoms of service-connected shoulder pain, how the VA rates these conditions based on the type of tissue involved and specific diagnoses (including potential 2025 compensation amounts for a veteran with no dependents), the impact of the bilateral factor, and how our expert coaches, utilizing the EDGE framework, can help you get the financial support you deserve for your shoulder pain.

Understanding How Your Military Service Can Cause Shoulder Pain

The physical nature of military service places immense stress on the musculoskeletal system, and the shoulder joint is particularly vulnerable. Many factors during your time in uniform could have contributed to your current shoulder pain:

• Repetitive Heavy Lifting and Carrying: The constant strain...

• Overhead Work and Activities: Frequent overhead tasks...

• Traumatic Injuries During Training or Deployment: Falls, direct blows...

• Weapon Handling and Repetitive Movements: The repetitive motions...

• Vehicle Accidents and Other Incidents: Injuries sustained...

Recognizing the Symptoms: What Does Service-Connected Shoulder Pain Feel Like?

• Persistent Aching or Throbbing

• Sharp, Shooting Pain

• Stiffness and Limited Range of Motion

• Weakness in the Arm and Shoulder

• Clicking, Grinding, or Popping Sensations

• Pain That Worsens with Activity or Rest

• Numbness or Tingling in the Arm or Hand

Maximizing Your Compensation: The Bilateral Factor for Shoulder Pain

If you experience service-connected pain in both shoulders, this is a critical factor in determining your potential compensation...

Understanding VA Disability Ratings and Potential Compensation for Shoulder Pain (2025, Veteran Alone)

VA disability ratings for shoulder pain vary widely depending on the specific diagnosis and the extent of functional limitation. Here are some potential rating ranges and their corresponding 2025 monthly compensation amounts for a veteran with no dependents, categorized by the type of tissue involved and specific diagnoses:

• Muscle and Tendon Injuries (Strain, Tendonitis, Bursitis): 0% - $0.00 to 30% - $537.42 (e.g., rotator cuff tendonitis, shoulder strain)

• Ligament Injuries (Sprains, Tears): 10% - $175.51 to 40% - $774.16 or higher (e.g., AC joint sprain, minor ligament tear)

• Nerve Injuries (Radiculopathy, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome): 10% - $175.51 to 70% - $1,759.19 or higher (e.g., cervical radiculopathy, thoracic outlet syndrome)

• Bone Injuries (Fractures, Non-Union): 0% - $0.00 to 50% - $1,102.04 or higher (depending on long-term effects)

• Joint Injuries (Impingement Syndrome, Adhesive Capsulitis, Osteoarthritis, Labral Tears):

  • Impingement Syndrome: 10% - $175.51 to 20% - $346.95

  • Adhesive Capsulitis (Frozen Shoulder): 10% - $175.51 to 30% - $537.42 or higher

  • Osteoarthritis: 10% - $175.51 to 50% - $1,102.04 or higher

  • Labral Tears: 10% - $175.51 to 40% - $774.16

• Rotator Cuff Tears: 20% - $346.95 to 50% - $1,102.04 or higher

Note: These are general examples, and the specific rating for your condition will depend on the precise medical diagnosis, the documented limitations in range of motion and function as outlined in the VA's rating schedule (38 CFR Part 4), and the specific diagnostic code applied.

Operation Veteran's Edge: Your Partner in Getting Paid for Your Shoulder Pain – The EDGE Framework Advantage

Our expert coaches at Operation Veteran's Edge utilize our proven EDGE framework to provide the dedicated support you need:

• Evaluate: We thoroughly evaluate your service history, medical records, and symptoms...

• Develop: We work with you to develop a strategic case...

• Guide: We guide you through the intricacies...

• Empower: We empower you with the knowledge...

Don't let chronic shoulder pain limit your life and prevent you from receiving the benefits you deserve. Contact Operation Veteran's Edge today for a free Tier 1 strategy session and let our EDGE framework guide you toward the financial recognition you've earned.