Muscle Group IV VA Disability Rating
Diagnostic Code 5304 · 38 CFR §4.73
What Is It?
Muscle Group IV consists of the intrinsic muscles of the shoulder girdle that stabilize the shoulder joint and assist with arm rotation. This group includes the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis — collectively known as the rotator cuff muscles. These muscles keep the ball of the shoulder centered in the socket during all arm movements. They are among the most commonly injured muscles in military service due to heavy lifting, throwing, overhead work, and falls onto outstretched arms.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 30% | Severe injury to the dominant arm. Non-dominant severe is rated 20 percent. |
| 20% | Moderately severe injury to the dominant or non-dominant arm. |
| 10% | Moderate injury with some loss of stability or rotation strength. |
| 0% | Slight injury with minimal functional impact. |
Evidence Needed
- Service records documenting the original shoulder muscle injury
- MRI or imaging showing the extent of muscle or tendon damage
- Strength testing results for rotation and stabilization movements
- Documentation of muscle atrophy or wasting in the shoulder area
- Statements about difficulty with rotation movements, lifting, and reaching
C&P Exam Tips
- Have the examiner test both internal and external rotation strength
- Report instability sensations like the shoulder slipping or feeling loose
- Describe activities that provoke pain or weakness such as reaching behind your back
- Mention any popping, grinding, or catching in the shoulder joint
- Show any visible muscle wasting around the shoulder blade
How to File
File under DC 5304 if the rotator cuff injury is classified as a muscle injury rather than a tendon or joint condition. In practice, rotator cuff injuries may be rated under this code or under shoulder joint codes depending on the specific nature of the damage. Discuss coding strategy with a veterans service organization.
Common Mistakes
Not distinguishing between muscle injury rating and joint limitation of motion rating — the higher of the two should apply Failing to document muscle atrophy which is a key indicator of severity Not having rotation strength formally tested during the examination Missing the secondary claim for developing arthritis from years of shoulder instability
Frequently Asked Questions
Should my rotator cuff injury be rated as a muscle injury or a joint condition?
This depends on the primary impairment. If the main problem is muscle or tendon damage with weakness, DC 5304 may apply. If the main problem is loss of range of motion in the shoulder joint, a joint limitation code may be more appropriate. VA should rate under whichever code provides the higher rating.
Can I get ratings for both the muscle injury and shoulder arthritis?
Generally VA avoids rating the same disability twice. However, if the muscle injury and arthritis cause distinctly different functional limitations, separate ratings may be possible. This is an area where a veterans service organization can provide valuable guidance.