Claiming Shoulder Impingement Secondary to Rotator Cuff Tear
How to file a VA disability claim for Shoulder Impingement as a secondary condition to your service-connected Rotator Cuff Tear. This guide covers the medical nexus, evidence requirements, and how a secondary claim can increase your combined rating.
This is not legal or medical advice. Always consult with a VSO or accredited claims agent.
Medical Nexus: Rotator Cuff Tear → Shoulder Impingement
NEXUS STRENGTH
moderate
COMMONLY GRANTED
Varies
CLAIM TYPE
Secondary
What is a Secondary VA Disability Claim?
A secondary condition is a disability that was caused or aggravated by a service-connected condition. Under 38 CFR § 3.310, the VA will grant service connection for a secondary condition if you can show a medical relationship (nexus) between your already service-connected condition and the new condition.
In this case, you would claim that your service-connected Rotator Cuff Tear caused or worsened your Shoulder Impingement.
Secondary claims are one of the most effective ways to increase your combined VA disability rating and monthly compensation.
How Rotator Cuff Tear Leads to Shoulder Impingement
Primary Condition: Rotator Cuff Tear
Common symptoms:
Secondary Condition: Shoulder Impingement
Common symptoms:
Evidence Needed for This Secondary Claim
1. Nexus Letter (Most Important)
Get a medical opinion letter from a doctor stating that your Shoulder Impingementis "at least as likely as not" caused by or aggravated by your service-connected Rotator Cuff Tear. This is the most critical piece of evidence for a secondary claim.
2. Current Diagnosis
Medical records showing a current diagnosis of Shoulder Impingement. VA treatment records, private medical records, or a current exam will work.
3. Service-Connected Primary Condition
You must already have Rotator Cuff Tear rated as service-connected. If not, file for that first or file both claims simultaneously.
4. Personal Statement
A detailed statement (VA Form 21-4138) describing how your Rotator Cuff Tear symptoms led to or worsened your Shoulder Impingement. Include specific examples of how both conditions affect your daily life.
How This Affects Your Compensation
If granted, Shoulder Impingement as a secondary condition will increase your combined VA disability rating using VA math. Here are 2026 monthly rates by rating:
30% Rating
$552.47
/month
50% Rating
$1,132.90
/month
70% Rating
$1,808.45
/month
Other Conditions Secondary to Rotator Cuff Tear
File Your Shoulder Impingement Secondary Claim
Use our free Claims Builder to organize your Shoulder Impingement evidence, link it to your Rotator Cuff Tear claim, and prepare for your C&P exam.