Claiming Labral Tear (Shoulder) Secondary to Shoulder Impingement
How to file a VA disability claim for Labral Tear (Shoulder) as a secondary condition to your service-connected Shoulder Impingement. 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: Shoulder Impingement → Labral Tear (Shoulder)
NEXUS STRENGTH
weak
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 Shoulder Impingement caused or worsened your Labral Tear (Shoulder).
Secondary claims are one of the most effective ways to increase your combined VA disability rating and monthly compensation.
How Shoulder Impingement Leads to Labral Tear (Shoulder)
Primary Condition: Shoulder Impingement
Common symptoms:
Secondary Condition: Labral Tear (Shoulder)
Common symptoms:
Evidence Needed for This Secondary Claim
1. Nexus Letter (Most Important)
Get a medical opinion letter from a doctor stating that your Labral Tear (Shoulder)is "at least as likely as not" caused by or aggravated by your service-connected Shoulder Impingement. This is the most critical piece of evidence for a secondary claim.
2. Current Diagnosis
Medical records showing a current diagnosis of Labral Tear (Shoulder). VA treatment records, private medical records, or a current exam will work.
3. Service-Connected Primary Condition
You must already have Shoulder Impingement 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 Shoulder Impingement symptoms led to or worsened your Labral Tear (Shoulder). Include specific examples of how both conditions affect your daily life.
How This Affects Your Compensation
If granted, Labral Tear (Shoulder) 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 Shoulder Impingement
File Your Labral Tear (Shoulder) Secondary Claim
Use our free Claims Builder to organize your Labral Tear (Shoulder) evidence, link it to your Shoulder Impingement claim, and prepare for your C&P exam.