Rotator Cuff Syndrome (Shoulder)

This guide covers what DVA looks for when assessing this condition, including the relevant Statement of Principles factors, the evidence you should gather, and common preparation tips. Expand each section for more detail.

You are reviewing the condition-specific guidance to understand what evidence and preparation DVA expects.

Physical EligibleVETS Act 2026

Also known as: Shoulder InjuryRotator cuff syndrome covers a range of shoulder conditions including tendinopathy, tears, and impingement of the rotator cuff muscles and tendons. Veterans commonly develop these from overhead activities, lifting, carrying heavy loads, and shoulder injuries during service. The SoP specifies overhead work or activities involving repeated arm elevation above shoulder height as contributing factors. Military activities such as weapons handling, vehicle maintenance, and stores loading are commonly cited. SoP 109 and 110 of 2022. The SoP requires repetitive or sustained activities of the affected shoulder — highlight specific physical trades involving overhead lifting in your evidence. These thresholds are from current SoP instruments. Always verify the current instrument at rma.gov.au.

Provisional Access to Medical Treatment ()Rotator cuff syndrome is on the PAMT list.

DVA uses Statements of Principles () from the Repatriation Medical Authority to determine whether a condition can be linked to service. For Shoulder Injury, DVA generally considers the following factors:

Performing forceful or repetitive activities involving the shoulder joint for at least 100 hours within a 12-month period during service
Having a direct injury or trauma to the shoulder during service
Lifting or carrying heavy loads overhead or at shoulder height repeatedly during service
Performing activities that repeatedly stress the shoulder (throwing, climbing, pulling)
Sustained or repetitive overhead work during service

Reference: SoP No. 109 of 2022 (Reasonable Hypothesis) / SoP No. 110 of 2022 (Balance of Probabilities). RH applies to operational/warlike service; BoP applies to peacetime service. Verify at rma.gov.au.Source: rma.gov.au — verify this directly with DVA for your circumstances.

DVA uses two different standards of proof depending on your type of service. Understanding which applies to you can help you prepare your evidence.

Reasonable Hypothesis (RH)Applies to: operational, warlike, or non-warlike serviceUnder the Reasonable Hypothesis standard (operational/warlike/non-warlike service), DVA generally considers that performing repetitive overhead activities, carrying heavy loads on the shoulders, or sustaining a shoulder injury during service — with clinical onset within a relevant period — is sufficient to raise a reasonable hypothesis.

Balance of Probabilities (BoP)Applies to: peacetime serviceUnder the Balance of Probabilities standard (peacetime service), DVA generally considers that the veteran must show it is more likely than not that rotator cuff syndrome was caused or materially contributed to by service activities or injuries.

In plain EnglishIf you had operational or warlike service, the Reasonable Hypothesis (RH) standard applies — this is a lower threshold. If your service was peacetime only, the stricter Balance of Probabilities (BoP) standard applies. SoP instruments are updated periodically by the RMA. Always verify the current instrument at rma.gov.au/sops.

Benefit of the doubt: DVA is legally required to give you the benefit of the doubt if evidence is evenly balanced (s119 , s335 ). Learn more

DVA generally considers the standard of proof based on your service type. Verify this directly with DVA or a qualified advocate.

Required

Shoulder imaging (ultrasound or MRI)Imaging confirming rotator cuff pathology — tear, tendinopathy, or impingement.How to get it: Ask your GP for a referral. An ultrasound is usually the first step; MRI provides more detail.Estimated time: 1-3 weeks

Service records showing shoulder-stressing activities or injuryDocumentation of activities, trade duties, or injuries that stressed your shoulder.How to get it: Request from Defence.Estimated time: 4-8 weeks

Medical nexus reportA report linking your shoulder condition to service activities or injuries.How to get it: Ask your GP or orthopaedic surgeon.Estimated time: 2-4 weeks

Document specific activities — overhead lifting, rope climbing, pack carrying (which straps pull on the shoulders), weapons handling
Highlight specific physical trades involving repetitive overhead lifting or sustained shoulder activity: stores loading, vehicle maintenance, weapons handling above shoulder height
If you had an acute shoulder injury, describe exactly what happened
Claim both shoulders if both are affected
If shoulder pain has limited your ability to exercise, which has led to other problems, consider claiming those as secondary

Medical nexus statement (from your doctor)

A medical opinion linking your shoulder condition to service activities.

What to ask your doctor

I am making a DVA claim for rotator cuff syndrome. I performed heavy lifting and overhead activities during my service. Could you write a report?

Personal statement (your own words)

Describe the service activities that involved your shoulder, any injuries, and the current impact.

Suggested structure

Activities that stressed your shoulders during service
Any specific shoulder injuries
When shoulder problems started
Current impact on daily activities

Common mistakes to avoid

✗Not getting appropriate imaging (ultrasound/MRI, not just X-ray)
✗Not describing repetitive activities with enough detail

Treatments DVA may cover

Physiotherapy and shoulder rehabilitation
Pain management and anti-inflammatory medications
Specialist orthopaedic consultations
Shoulder surgery (arthroscopy, repair) if indicated
Post-surgical rehabilitation

Next steps to consider

Proceed to Permanent Impairment claim once stabilised
Claim the other shoulder if affected
Consider whether limited mobility has caused secondary conditions

Actual entitlements depend on individual DVA assessment. This is indicative only.

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Official + GuidanceVerified March 2026

This page combines official DVA information with platform-authored guidance. Official sources are cited where applicable.

SoP factors sourced from RMA. Guidance text explains official processes in plain language.

RMA — Statements of Principles

This is a guide onlyThis information is a free guide. It is not legal advice, medical advice, or financial advice. Always verify with DVA directly or with a qualified advocate before lodging a claim.

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Rotator Cuff Syndrome (Shoulder)

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