Muscle Group V VA Disability Rating
Diagnostic Code 5305 · 38 CFR §4.73
What Is It?
Muscle Group V includes the flexor muscles of the elbow, primarily the biceps, brachialis, and brachioradialis. These muscles bend the elbow and rotate the forearm so your palm faces upward. They are used in virtually every lifting, carrying, and pulling movement. Military injuries to this group commonly result from penetrating wounds to the upper arm, heavy lifting injuries, and trauma from falls or explosions.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 40% | Severe injury to the dominant arm with major loss of elbow flexion power. |
| 30% | Moderately severe injury to the dominant arm, or severe injury to the non-dominant arm. |
| 20% | Moderately severe injury to the non-dominant arm. |
| 10% | Moderate injury with some loss of elbow flexion strength or endurance. |
| 0% | Slight injury with minimal functional impact. |
Evidence Needed
- Service records documenting the original upper arm muscle injury
- Surgical records and treatment history
- Current strength testing for elbow flexion and forearm supination
- Documentation of muscle wasting or visible deformity in the upper arm
- Statements about difficulty with lifting, carrying, and bending the elbow
C&P Exam Tips
- Have the examiner compare flexion strength between both arms
- Report specific weight limits — how much you can lift and carry
- Show any visible loss of muscle bulk in the upper arm
- Describe fatigue that occurs with repetitive bending and lifting
- Mention if you have difficulty with tasks like carrying groceries or lifting children
How to File
File under DC 5305 with documentation of the muscle injury and current strength deficits in elbow flexion. Specify dominant versus non-dominant arm.
Common Mistakes
Not specifying dominant arm which significantly affects the rating percentage Failing to have comparative strength testing between both arms Not documenting muscle atrophy with measurements Missing separate nerve damage claims when nerves in the upper arm were also injured
Frequently Asked Questions
How is muscle strength graded?
Muscle strength is typically graded on a 0 to 5 scale where 5 is normal strength and 0 is no movement. The examiner compares strength in the injured arm to the uninjured side. Any reduction from grade 5 supports some level of muscle impairment.
What if my biceps was torn rather than wounded?
Biceps tears from heavy lifting or training injuries can qualify under this code if they occurred during military service and resulted in lasting muscle impairment. The rating criteria are the same regardless of whether the injury was from penetrating trauma or overuse.