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Shoulder replacement (prosthesis)
Diagnostic code 5051 · Musculoskeletal system · 38 CFR 4.71a
Rating criteria: the exact regulation text
Quoted from 38 CFR 4.71a. The "Rating" column is the percentage VA assigns for that level.
Printed at the start of this table in the regulation:
| Criteria | Major | Minor |
|---|---|---|
| Note (1): When an evaluation is assigned for joint resurfacing or the prosthetic replacement of a joint under diagnostic codes 5051-5056, an additional rating under § 4.71a may not also be assigned for that joint, unless otherwise directed. | ||
| Note (2): Only evaluate a revision procedure in the same manner as the original procedure under diagnostic codes 5051-5056 if all the original components are replaced. | ||
| Note (3): The term “prosthetic replacement” in diagnostic codes 5051-5053 and 5055-5056 means a total replacement of the named joint. However, in DC 5054, “prosthetic replacement” means a total replacement of the head of the femur or of the acetabulum. | ||
| Note (4): The 100 percent rating for 1 year following implantation of prosthesis will commence after initial grant of the 1-month total rating assigned under § 4.30 following hospital discharge. | ||
| Note (5): The 100 percent rating for 4 months following implantation of prosthesis or resurfacing under DCs 5054 and 5055 will commence after initial grant of the 1-month total rating assigned under § 4.30 following hospital discharge. | ||
| Note (6): Special monthly compensation is assignable during the 100 percent rating period the earliest date permanent use of crutches is established. |
| Criteria | Major | Minor |
|---|---|---|
| 5051 Shoulder replacement (prosthesis). | ||
| Prosthetic replacement of the shoulder joint: | ||
| For 1 year following implantation of prosthesis | 100 | 100 |
| With chronic residuals consisting of severe, painful motion or weakness in the affected extremity | 60 | 50 |
| With intermediate degrees of residual weakness, pain or limitation of motion, rate by analogy to diagnostic codes 5200 and 5203. | ||
| Minimum rating | 30 | 20 |
Where else the regulation mentions this code
These lines appear under other codes or headings in the schedule and name this code.
Note (1): When an evaluation is assigned for joint resurfacing or the prosthetic replacement of a joint under diagnostic codes 5051-5056, an additional rating under § 4.71a may not also be assigned for that joint, unless otherwise directed.
Note (2): Only evaluate a revision procedure in the same manner as the original procedure under diagnostic codes 5051-5056 if all the original components are replaced.
Note (3): The term “prosthetic replacement” in diagnostic codes 5051-5053 and 5055-5056 means a total replacement of the named joint. However, in DC 5054, “prosthetic replacement” means a total replacement of the head of the femur or of the acetabulum.
Notes for the whole table
1 Also entitled to special monthly compensation.
Related codes in the regulation
- 5200 Scapulohumeral articulation, ankylosis ofMentioned together
- 5203 Clavicle or scapula, impairment ofMentioned together
The VA exam form for this condition
VA examiners record their findings on a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ). Reading it shows you what the exam will measure and ask.
Rules that apply to this body system
Where this comes from
38 CFR 4.71a, VA's Schedule for Rating Disabilities, from the official eCFR.
Regulation text current as of October 16, 2026.
Change history for this code (38 CFR Part 4, Appendix A): Added September 22, 1978; note February 7, 2021.
Read it on eCFR.govInformation, not advice
This page shows the text of VA's rating regulation for information. It is not a rating estimate, and it is not legal or medical advice. VA decides every rating on the evidence in your file.
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