38 CFR Part 4 — 38 CFR § 4.71a
Group III Function: Elevation and abduction of arm
Musculoskeletal
Diagnostic code
5303
Why your DC matters: DC 5303 identifies the rating criteria VA applies to this condition. The controlling regulation and the evidence in an individual record determine the evaluation; no page can predict an outcome.
Official source
Until this catalog entry is independently reviewed, this page is identification only. Read the live schedule at 38 CFR Part 4 (eCFR) — locate diagnostic code 5303 in the subpart for your body system.
Next Steps
If your rating decision lists DC 5303, compare your current symptoms and documentation against the criteria for DC 5303 in 38 CFR Part 4. Consider:
- Requesting a copy of your rating decision and C&P exam report from the VA
- Gathering all relevant medical records (VA and private providers)
- Documenting functional limitations and how they impact work and daily activities
- Discussing whether medical-opinion evidence is needed with an accredited representative
- Reviewing any potentially related conditions with a qualified clinician and accredited representative
- Contacting a VA-accredited VSO, claims agent, or attorney to review your file
This is general educational information only — not legal or medical advice.
Other codes in this body system
Nearby catalog entries in Musculoskeletal, ordered by diagnostic code number. All Musculoskeletal codes
- DC 5283Tarsal or metatarsal bones, malunion or nonunion
- DC 5284Foot injuries, other
- DC 5295Lumbosacral strain (legacy — pre-9/26/2003 schedule)
- DC 5296Skull, loss of part of both inner and outer tables
- DC 5297Ribs, removal
- DC 5298Coccyx, removal
- DC 5301Group I Function: Upward rotation of scapula
- DC 5302Group II Function: Depression of arm
- DC 5304Group IV Function: Stabilization of shoulder
- DC 5305Group V Function: Elbow supination
- DC 5306Group VI Function: Extension of elbow
- DC 5307Group VII Function: Flexion of wrist and fingers
- DC 5308Group VIII Function: Extension of wrist, fingers, thumb
- DC 5309Group IX Function: Forearm muscles
- DC 5310Group X Function: Movement of forefoot and toes
- DC 5311Group XI Function: Propulsion of foot
Also: DC code lookup (tools) lists the same index in a compact layout.
Source: 38 CFR Part 4, Diagnostic Code 5303 • va.gov
⚠️ Important Disclaimer
This page provides general educational information based on public VA regulations and VA.gov resources. It is not legal or medical advice, and My Claim Packet is not a VA-accredited representative. Any worksheets or draft documents produced by the tools must be reviewed for accuracy and are not filed with VA for you. Ratings and service connection are decided case-by-case from the individual record. Consult a VA-accredited VSO, claims agent, attorney, or qualified clinician for help with your situation, and verify current rules using the linked official source.