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Rotator Cuff Injuries and VA Disability

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Leah Bucholz

Leah Bucholz, PA-C, is a Board-Certified Physician Assistant, U.S. Army combat veteran, and nationally recognized medical expert in veterans’ disability claims. A former VA Compensation & Pension examiner, she founded Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting to provide independent, regulation-based medical opinions (“nexus” letters) grounded in the VA’s Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR). Leah’s work is frequently cited in favorable Board of Veterans’ Appeals decisions, and her content draws directly from authoritative sources such as VA.gov, the eCFR, and the Federal Register.
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Rotator Cuff Injuries and VA Disability

At Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting, our blogs are written and reviewed by licensed medical professionals or military veterans with direct experience in the VA claims process. Our team has served as healthcare providers, combat veterans, and former VA examiners — giving us unique insight into both the medical and regulatory side of benefits. Every article is designed to provide accurate, trustworthy, and practical guidance so that veterans and their families can make informed decisions with confidence.

Shoulder injuries, particularly rotator cuff injuries, are extremely common among veterans. Due to the physical demands of military service, veterans often experience musculoskeletal problems, and shoulder conditions are high on that list. Understanding how rotator cuff injuries connect to VA disability benefits is essential for veterans seeking the compensation they deserve.

This guide provides a detailed overview of rotator cuff injuries, how they occur, how they are rated by the VA, and what steps veterans can take to support their disability claims.

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Understanding Rotator Cuff Injuries

The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and their associated tendons that work together to stabilize the shoulder joint. These muscles are essential for shoulder strength, stability, and movement. The rotator cuff allows you to lift, rotate, and control your arm during virtually all upper body activities.

Common Causes of Rotator Cuff Injuries in Veterans

Rotator cuff injuries are particularly prevalent among service members who perform repetitive lifting, heavy gear carrying, or overhead movements. Jobs such as infantry, supply handling, and physically demanding specialties increase the likelihood of shoulder strain and injury. Additionally, direct trauma to the shoulder joint, whether during training, combat, or accidents, can result in acute rotator cuff damage.

Many rotator cuff injuries in veterans develop over time due to wear and tear, but others may stem from:

  • Combat-related incidents
  • Repetitive stress injuries
  • Secondary conditions caused by other service-connected disabilities, such as cervical spine problems

Types of Rotator Cuff Injuries

Rotator cuff injuries can vary in severity and presentation. Some of the most common forms include:

  • Partial or complete tears of the rotator cuff tendons
  • Tendinitis (inflammation of the tendons)
  • Impingement syndrome (tendon compression leading to pain and limited movement)
  • Post-surgical complications, including stiffness and chronic pain

Symptoms of Rotator Cuff Injuries

Veterans suffering from rotator cuff issues often experience:

  • Chronic shoulder pain
  • Weakness in the affected arm
  • Limited range of motion
  • Difficulty performing simple tasks like lifting groceries, dressing, or reaching overhead
  • Loss of functional strength, particularly during repetitive movements

Medical Research on Shoulder Injuries in the Military

Rotator cuff injuries among veterans are not just a common occurrence — they are well-documented in medical literature. Several studies confirm the significant impact of military service on shoulder health.

  • The American Journal of Sports Medicine identified shoulder injuries as one of the top five musculoskeletal injuries among active-duty service members.
  • Data from the Armed Forces Health Surveillance Center reported over 400,000 medical visits related to shoulder injuries across the military within a six-year span.
  • A 2021 study in the Orthopedic Journal of Sports Medicine highlighted that many military personnel delay treatment for shoulder injuries, increasing the risk of chronic damage and long-term disability.

These studies demonstrate a clear connection between military service and the development of rotator cuff injuries.

Establishing VA Disability for Rotator Cuff Injuries

Service Connection

To receive VA disability benefits for a rotator cuff injury, a veteran must prove that the condition is service-connected. This can happen through several paths to include:

  1. Direct Service Connection: The injury occurred or was aggravated during active duty or in the line of duty.
  2. Secondary Service Connection: The injury is a result of another service-connected condition, such as neck issues or imbalances in the body caused by other injuries.

Even if the injury was not formally diagnosed during service, veterans may still successfully link the condition to their military duties with sufficient medical evidence.

Importance of Medical Evidence

A strong VA claim for a rotator cuff injury may include:

  • Detailed medical records (including imaging studies like MRIs)
  • Range of motion measurements and strength tests
  • Physical therapy notes
  • Surgical records if applicable
  • Statements from healthcare providers explaining the link between military service and the injury
  • Personal impact statements describing how the injury affects daily life and work

Veterans can also request a nexus letter from a qualified medical provider. This letter is not required but can significantly strengthen a claim by explicitly connecting the injury to military service.

VA Ratings for Rotator Cuff Injuries

Diagnostic Codes

The VA typically rates rotator cuff injuries under:

  • Diagnostic Code 5200 to 5203, which cover shoulder and arm conditions.

Factors the VA Considers

When assigning a disability rating, the VA evaluates:

  • Range of motion limitations (how high or far the veteran can lift or rotate the arm)
  • Pain levels during use
  • Fatigue or weakness in the shoulder
  • Whether the injury impacts the dominant or non-dominant arm
  • Whether the veteran has undergone surgery, such as rotator cuff repair or total shoulder replacement

Possible Disability Ratings

Disability ratings for rotator cuff injuries can vary:

  • Mild cases may receive a 10% rating
  • Moderate cases may qualify for 20% to 30% ratings
  • Severe cases with significant functional loss, surgical complications, or impact on employment may receive ratings 40% or higher

In some cases, especially when secondary conditions develop or when the injury significantly impairs employability, veterans may qualify for additional compensation or Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU).

Tips for Veterans with Rotator Cuff Injuries

  • Seek timely medical attention. Delaying treatment can worsen the injury and complicate the claim.
  • Document all symptoms and limitations. Keeping a daily journal of how the injury impacts daily life can support the claim.
  • Consult qualified medical professionals who understand the VA disability process.
  • Follow up regularly with the VA or your accredited representative to stay informed about your claim status and options.

Conclusion

Rotator cuff injuries can have a lasting impact on a veteran’s quality of life and ability to work. Fortunately, the VA recognizes the connection between military service and these injuries, offering disability compensation to those affected.

Veterans should not hesitate to pursue the benefits they have earned. By understanding the process, gathering solid medical evidence, and seeking help from accredited professionals, veterans can navigate the complex VA system and obtain the compensation they deserve for rotator cuff injuries and their impact on daily life.

Also read: How to Maximize Your VA Benefits for Your Family

At Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting, a veteran-owned company, we specialize in Independent Medical Opinions (IMOs) known as Nexus letters.

Our purpose is to empower YOU, the veteran, to take charge of your medical evidence and provide you with valuable educational tools and research to guide you on your journey.

Understanding the unique challenges veterans face, our commitment lies in delivering exceptional service and support.

Leveraging an extensive network of licensed independent medical professionals, all well-versed in the medical professional aspects of the VA claims process, we review the necessary medical evidence to incorporate in our reports related to your VA Disability Claim.

Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting is not a law firm, accredited claims agent, or affiliated with the Veterans Administration or Veterans Services Organizations. However, we are happy to discuss your case with your accredited VA legal professional.

Picture of Alan Bucholz, PA-C

Alan Bucholz, PA-C

Board-Certified Physician Assistant | U.S. Army Combat Veteran | Co-founder & CFO, Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting

This article was medically reviewed and fact checked by Alan Bucholz, PA-C, a board-certified Physician Assistant and retired U.S. Army combat veteran with experience in emergency medicine and two combat deployments (Iraq & Afghanistan). As Co-founder of Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting, Alan provides evidence-based medical opinions to support veterans’ VA disability claims with accuracy, compliance, and ethics.

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In her active-duty service in the United States Navy, Danielle undertook a variety of responsibilities, ranging from essential administrative duties to providing crucial medical care. Her multifaceted contributions played a pivotal role in enhancing her fellow service members’ operational effectiveness and well-being.

As a disabled veteran, she developed a profound understanding of the unique challenges faced by her fellow service members. Now, in her civilian role, Danielle is a valued member of the Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting team, where she continues to leverage her extensive background and educational achievements to provide exceptional support to veterans.

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Someday she hopes to develop medical software that further enhances the patient’s experience in medical care. Leticia has a deep respect and love for those who have served as she comes from a family of law enforcement and military veterans.

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ALAN BUCHOLZ, PA-C:

U.S ARMY VETERAN, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Alan enlisted in the US Army as a combat medic, where he deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Influenced by his time as a combat medic, he attended the Interservice Physician Assistant program while on
active duty, was commissioned as an officer, and subsequently deployed to Afghanistan.  

Alan’s military and medical background inspired him to form Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting with his
wife, Leah Bucholz, a Physician Assistant and Army Combat Veteran.  He has devoted himself to using his
knowledge gained in the military as a medical professional to serve the Veteran community.

Alan Bucholz

ALAN BUCHOLZ, PA-C:

U.S ARMY VETERAN, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Alan enlisted in the US Army as a combat medic, where he deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Influenced by his time as a combat medic, he attended the Interservice Physician Assistant program while on
active duty, was commissioned as an officer, and subsequently deployed to Afghanistan.  

Alan’s military and medical background inspired him to form Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting with his
wife, Leah Bucholz, a Physician Assistant and Army Combat Veteran.  He has devoted himself to using his
knowledge gained in the military as a medical professional to serve the Veteran community.

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JULIE PEREIRA:

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

During her Active-Duty time in the US Navy as a Hospital Corpsman, Julie provided medical administration
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administrative background has given Julie the hands-on experience and extensive knowledge necessary to
provide unparalleled service to her fellow Veterans through the Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting team.

Julie’s educational achievements include a Bachelor of Arts with a minor in Human Services and a pre-nursing associate in arts and science.

Julie has been inspired by her firsthand knowledge of navigating the VA Benefits process. She has dedicated
most of her adult life to serving Veterans through her knowledge derived from her military and civilian medical
education and training.

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JENNIFER JANUTA

U.S ARMY VETERAN, CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER

During her Active-Duty service in the Army, Jennifer supported various research efforts centered on combat casualty care and Soldier performance. Her military background gave her unique insights into veterans’ distinct challenges, ultimately inspiring her to join the Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting team.

Jennifer’s educational achievements include a master’s in molecular biology from George Washington University and a master’s in data science from Texas Tech University. Jennifer wholeheartedly dedicates herself to utilizing her knowledge and expertise gained from 15 years of healthcare experience to impact the well-being of those who have served positively.

Alan Bucholz

ALAN BUCHOLZ, PA-C:

U.S ARMY VETERAN, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Alan enlisted in the US Army as a combat medic, where he deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Influenced by his time as a combat medic, he attended the Interservice Physician Assistant program while on
active duty, was commissioned as an officer, and subsequently deployed to Afghanistan.  

Alan’s military and medical background inspired him to form Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting with his
wife, Leah Bucholz, a Physician Assistant and Army Combat Veteran.  He has devoted himself to using his
knowledge gained in the military as a medical professional to serve the Veteran community.

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LEAH BUCHOLZ, PA-C

U.S ARMY VETERAN, MEDICAL EXPERT & FORMER C & P EXAMINER

Meet Leah, the founder, and leader of our organization. ​​A combat veteran herself, she understands the unique challenges veterans face, making her mission about much more than running a successful business. It’s about the opportunity to provide a legacy of exceptional service for our heroes.​

​“It is essential to remember that there is no greater honor than caring for service members on the battlefield. Continuing to care for Veterans after separation is an opportunity that I have been afforded to extend that care in this new battlefield related to service-incurred disabilities.”

Her inspiration comes from years of military experience working alongside her fellow servicemembers, particularly key leaders who have influenced her journey, applying their wisdom to her path. She values her team deeply, most of whom are also disabled combat veterans, each member a trusted individual sharing her vision.

 “Driven by passion and purpose, I aim to create a sustainable change that empowers veterans and future generations.”

Leah’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. From overcoming and living with her service-related disabilities to navigating work-life balance, she’s learned to face each hurdle head-on with resilience.  Like many of her veteran brothers and sisters, her early background consisted of limited resources and opportunities. Her military service has helped shape her into a steadfast leader, offering relatable inspiration to others.

Join us in celebrating Leah, a compassionate leader, and resilient veteran, driving our mission to serve those who served our nation.

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