Common symptoms
- ▸Pain, stiffness, or weakness in the joint
- ▸Reduced range of motion
- ▸Instability or giving way
- ▸Flare-ups with use
Common evidence
- ▸Orthopedic evaluation and imaging (X-ray / MRI)
- ▸Goniometer ROM measurements
- ▸Service medical records of in-service injury
- ▸Lay statements on flare-ups and functional loss
Primary service connection examples
- ▸Documented in-service overuse or acute injury
- ▸Heavy-lifting or repetitive-motion MOS
- ▸Combat or training injury
Secondary service connection examples
- ▸Arthritis secondary to documented joint injury
- ▸Opposite-side joint condition secondary to compensation use
Rating basics
Rated under 38 CFR §4.71a by range of motion of the affected joint (shoulder, elbow, wrist, hand). Pain on motion, weakened movement, and flare-ups are factored under DeLuca v. Brown.
Common denial reasons
- ✕No in-service complaint or post-service continuity
- ✕ROM at non-compensable levels without DeLuca consideration