glen ellen

I am having a shoulder injury rated. Are shoulders rated on the joint as well as the muscle? It appears muscle injuries rate a higher percentage than joint injuries. Are the damages stacked? For example, if I am 20% shoulder and 20% joint, will that be 30% (or 40%, I have not done the math) or will they only accept one? Thank you.

Thank you for your response. No, have not applied. I had a shoulder surgery while in the Navy for an injury while on active duty (all in record). Recently the shoulder is dislocating often and I still do not have full range of motion. After 15 years I decided to check with the VA to see what was available, and was told to apply for benefits - indicating if what I say is accurate, I should be entitled to compensation. Haven't been to a medical provider for my shoulder since I was in the military - when it dislocates (although it hurts like heck)- it usually pops back in within 10 minutes. So should I go see a medical provider to get MRI (I have medical insurance)?

Do I take the DBQ form to my doctor to complete prior to filling out the application or will the VA send me to its own doctor? I have been out for over 15 years and claiming for the first time a disability (shoulder) from a surgery I had while in the Navy.