How the VA Rates Hip Conditions
The VA rates hip disabilities based on range-of-motion limitation, ankylosis, or surgical replacement. Ratings typically fall between 10% and 40% for motion-limited hips, with a 100% temporary rating granted for one year after total hip replacement surgery under Diagnostic Code 5054.
Key Diagnostic Codes for Hip Conditions
Under 38 CFR Part 4, the following diagnostic codes apply to hip conditions.
- DC 5250 — Hip, ankylosis of: Favorable position (hip usable for walking) — 60%. Unfavorable position — 90%.
- DC 5251 — Hip, limitation of extension: Extension limited to 5 degrees — 10%.
- DC 5252 — Hip, limitation of flexion: Flexion limited to 45 degrees — 30%. Limited to 60 degrees — 20%. Limited to 90 degrees — 10%.
- DC 5253 — Hip, limitation of abduction: Abduction limited to 10 degrees — 20%.
- DC 5254 — Hip, limitation of rotation: Internal/external rotation loss — 10%.
- DC 5255 — Femur, impairment of: Used for femur fracture residuals. Nonunion with loose motion — 40%. Malunion with marked deformity — 20%.
- DC 5256 — Knee, ankylosis of: Not a hip code — note that rating examiners sometimes confuse nearby codes.
- DC 5054 — Hip replacement (prosthetic): Rated at 100% for one year post-surgery. After one year, re-evaluation occurs and the rating is based on residual function — typically 30% if chronic residuals remain.
Range-of-Motion Testing for Hip Claims
At your C&P exam, the examiner measures hip motion with a goniometer. Normal hip ranges include:
- Flexion: 0–125 degrees
- Extension: 0–30 degrees
- Abduction (leg out to side): 0–45 degrees
- Adduction (leg crossing): 0–30 degrees
- Internal rotation: 0–40 degrees
- External rotation: 0–45 degrees
The VA rates based on the most limiting motion plane. Report pain at the end of each motion and during any sustained or repetitive movement. Under 38 CFR 4.59, documented painful motion must be considered in rating — even if measured degrees appear near normal.
Hip Replacement Under DC 5054
A total hip arthroplasty (THA) automatically earns a 100% VA rating for one full year after the surgery date under DC 5054. This 100% rating applies even if your function recovers well post-surgery.
- After 12 months, the VA schedules a re-evaluation C&P exam.
- If you have chronic residuals — such as pain, limited flexion, or weakness — you can maintain a 30% or higher rating.
- The minimum rating after a THA with any residuals is typically 30% under DC 5054.
- If you are service-connected for a hip condition and later need a replacement, the THA rating applies at that time.
Avascular Necrosis (AVN) of the Hip
Avascular necrosis (AVN) is a condition in which bone tissue in the femoral head dies due to loss of blood supply. It is common in veterans and can result from corticosteroid use, alcohol use, or barotrauma (diving). AVN causes pain, limited range of motion, and eventually collapse of the hip joint.
- AVN is rated under the applicable range-of-motion code (DC 5252, 5253, 5254) based on how much the joint motion is limited.
- If AVN progresses to requiring a hip replacement, the veteran receives the DC 5054 rating (100% for one year post-surgery).
- If AVN was caused by corticosteroid use that was itself service-related, secondary service connection may apply.
Secondary Hip Conditions From Back Injuries
A service-connected lumbar spine condition can cause or aggravate hip dysfunction through altered gait, compensatory posture, and nerve root involvement. Veterans with a back rating can pursue secondary service connection for hip conditions.
- The most persuasive evidence is a physician nexus letter explaining how the lumbar condition has altered gait mechanics or caused nerve compression that affects the hip.
- Sciatic nerve involvement (S1–S2 roots) can refer pain into the hip and groin area, sometimes mimicking hip joint pathology.
- Gait analysis findings and physical therapy notes are useful supporting evidence for secondary hip claims.
Pain, Flare-Ups, and Functional Loss
Under 38 CFR 4.40, the VA must consider functional loss caused by pain, weakness, or fatigue — not just the measured end-range of motion. Use your personal statement to document:
- How far you can walk before hip pain begins.
- Activities you can no longer perform: climbing stairs, getting up from a chair, lifting, prolonged standing.
- Sleep disruption caused by hip pain.
- Frequency and duration of flare-ups that temporarily worsen your motion.
Use our VA disability rating calculator to see how your hip rating combines with other service-connected conditions. Browse all rated musculoskeletal conditions at VA disability.