Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L01332:reg:60:p2
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L01332
Segment Type: reg
Provision Reference: reg 60 (pt 2/6)
Character Range: 99631–102372

the joint by virtue only of those muscles whose normal function it is to do so. The ability of a veteran to flex a joint by use of other, non-affected body parts does not reduce the rating which the impaired joint attracts. (For example, if a veteran cannot flex the right elbow in the normal fashion, by use of the right biceps, but can use the left hand to bend the right elbow, the right elbow should be assessed as having "loss of almost all movement".)

 The loss of range of movement will usually be provided as a fractional loss of range of movement and such data can be related directly to items within Table 3.1.1. However, sometimes, the measured movements of an affected joint will be available in degrees. In such a case the measured movement must be compared with the average range of movement of a normal joint to obtain the fractional loss of range of movement.

 The average ranges of movement of various normal joints of the upper limb may be obtained from Table 3.5.1 in Part 3.5. These values are to be used in arriving at the fractional loss of range of movement when the actual movements of a joint are known in degrees.

 If non-accepted conditions contribute to the loss of range of movement, Chapter 19 (Partially Contributing Impairment) is to be applied in conjunction with Table 3.1.1.

 If various impairment ratings have been obtained for the right upper limb joints, and Chapter 19 has been applied to them, take the highest resultant rating. This is the final functional impairment rating for the right upper limb based on loss of range of movement. If Chapter 19 did not have to be applied, then take the highest of the various impairment ratings that have been obtained for each right upper limb joint. In that case, this is the final functional impairment rating for the right upper limb based on loss of range of movement.

     For the purposes of this chapter:

     "position of function" means the position that interferes least with the total function of the limb or the spine; and

     "unfavourable position" means a position that is significantly different from the position of function; and

     "flail joint" means a joint that is completely unstable in all directions.

 Functional Loss
  Table 3.1.1 LOSS OF MUSCULOSKELETAL FUNCTION: UPPER LIMB JOINTS
    Impairment
    Ratings
   NIL

    FIVE

   TEN

    FIFTEEN TWENTY

    THIRTY FORTY

    FIFTY

Shoulder
    * No abnormality.
  * X-ray changes only with normal range of movement.

Loss of about one-quarter normal range of movement.

Loss of about one-half normal range of movement.

Loss of about three-quarters normal range of movement. Loss of almost all movement, or complete ankylosis in position of