Axillary nerve paralysis

Medical records and examination findings that document the function of the deltoid and teres minor muscles are central to this rating. For a complete paralysis rating, records should show that you cannot abduct your arm and that outward rotation is weakened. Strength testing, range-of-motion measurements, and electromyography or nerve conduction studies can all help show how much function has been lost and whether the paralysis is complete or incomplete.

For severe incomplete paralysis, findings would show significant but not total loss of deltoid or teres minor function. For moderate or mild levels, records would reflect progressively smaller deficits in strength or movement. If your condition is purely sensory, that distinction matters because the rating is capped at mild or moderate.

Statements from you or people who know you describing how shoulder weakness affects your daily tasks — lifting, reaching, carrying, or doing your job — can help show the functional impact at each level. Records from treating providers, physical therapists, or VA examiners that consistently document the degree of weakness over time are also useful. If both arms are involved, documentation for each arm separately will support the combined rating.