Shoulder C&P Exam: What to Expect | Doctor Who Does These Exams Explains | VA Disability

🩺 Going to a shoulder C&P exam? Schedule your FREE medical consultation first → https://xterrahealth.com/work-with-me/

Your VA shoulder exam can make or break your disability rating. In this video, I walk you through exactly what happens during a shoulder C&P exam — not the sanitized version, the real one.

I'm Dr. Marshall Bahr, a physician who actually conducts these exams AND an Army Ranger veteran who's been on the other side of the table. I know what the examiner is looking for, what measurements matter for your rating, and most importantly, the critical mistakes veterans make that cost them thousands in benefits.

If you're about to have a shoulder C&P exam, this video could be worth 10-20% on your disability rating.

🎯 VA RATING CRITERIA FOR SHOULDER (DC 5201):
Dominant Arm:

Motion limited to 25 degrees from side = 40%
Motion limited midway between side and shoulder level = 30%
Motion limited at shoulder level = 20%
Any painful motion = minimum 10%

Non-Dominant Arm:

Motion limited to 25 degrees from side = 30%
Motion limited midway between side and shoulder level = 20%
Motion limited at shoulder level = 20%
Any painful motion = minimum 10%

💡 KEY TAKEAWAYS:
✓ Tell them when it hurts - The examiner can only document pain you report. Don't tough it out. The moment you feel pain, say it out loud.
✓ Range of motion determines your rating - They'll use a goniometer to measure four movements: flexion (forward), abduction (to the side), internal rotation, and external rotation.
✓ Repetitive use matters - You'll do movements at least 3 times. If your range decreases or pain worsens, that gets documented and can increase your rating.
✓ Repeated use over time counts - Tell them how your shoulder performs at the end of a workday, not just in the exam room.
✓ Flare-ups affect ratings - Even if you're not having a flare-up during the exam, describe what happens during your worst days.
✓ Functional impact is critical - List every single thing your shoulder prevents you from doing: lifting kids, reaching overhead, sleeping on that side, working, exercising.
✓ Don't minimize - This isn't a test of toughness. You're not trying to pass Ranger School. Give an accurate picture of your limitations.
✓ Bring documentation - Don't assume the examiner has your records. Bring copies of everything.

💼 NEED HELP BUILDING YOUR CLAIM?
If you need comprehensive medical evidence BEFORE your C&P exam — or if you've been denied and need to strengthen your claim — Xterra Health specializes in exactly this.

We provide:

Independent Medical Opinions (Nexus Letters)
Private DBQs showing full functional limitations
Medical record review and analysis
Claim strategy consultation
Evidence package development

We're physicians who understand the VA system inside and out.
We know what the C&P examiner is looking for. We know what the rater needs to see. And we know how to document your condition so it reflects reality, not just a 15-minute snapshot.

96% approval rate on initial submission.

Schedule your free consultation: https://xterrahealth.com/contact/

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⚖️ LEGAL DISCLAIMER:
Dr. Marshall Bahr is a physician, not an attorney. This video provides medical education and general information about VA C&P exams. This is not legal advice. For legal representation regarding VA claims, consult an accredited VA attorney or claims agent.

🏥 MEDICAL DISCLAIMER:
This video is for educational purposes and does not establish a doctor-patient relationship. The information provided does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your personal healthcare provider regarding your specific medical conditions.

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