Impairment of the Thigh (Hip Rotation/Adduction)
Impairment of the Thigh (Hip Rotation/Adduction) is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a, DC 5253, Diagnostic Code 5253, from 0% to 20% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 20% rating requires: Limitation of abduction of, motion lost beyond 10°. Most claims establish the 0% or 10% rating before reaching the top tier.
Rating schedule — DC 5253 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 0%
- Maximum rating
- 20%
- Rating tiers
- 3
- CFR section
- 38 CFR § 4.71a, DC 5253
- Body system
- Musculoskeletal System
- Secondary conditions
- 0
Lowest schedular rating available
TDIU may raise effective compensation to 100%
0%, 10%, 20%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Impairment of the Thigh (Hip Rotation/Adduction)?
Hip rotation or adduction not limited to a compensable degree.
Note: Normal hip abduction is 0 to 45 degrees. Normal hip external rotation is 0 to 60 degrees. Normal hip internal rotation is 0 to 40 degrees.
Limitation of adduction of, cannot cross legs
Note: Two separate 10% criteria exist: (1) rotation limited so cannot toe-out more than 15 degrees; (2) adduction limited so cannot cross legs.
Limitation of abduction of, motion lost beyond 10°
Note: 20% is the maximum rating under DC 5253.
“Limitation of adduction of, cannot cross legs”
Common Questions About Impairment of the Thigh (Hip Rotation/Adduction) VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Impairment of the Thigh (Hip Rotation/Adduction)?
The VA rates Impairment of the Thigh (Hip Rotation/Adduction) under Diagnostic Code 5253 at 0%, 10%, 20%. The minimum 0% rating requires: Hip rotation or adduction not limited to a compensable degree.. The maximum 20% rating requires: Limitation of abduction of, motion lost beyond 10°.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Impairment of the Thigh (Hip Rotation/Adduction)?
The VA rates Impairment of the Thigh (Hip Rotation/Adduction) under Diagnostic Code (DC) 5253, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a, DC 5253. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
What is the difference between a 0% and a 20% rating for Impairment of the Thigh (Hip Rotation/Adduction)?
A 0% rating requires: Hip rotation or adduction not limited to a compensable degree.. A 20% rating requires: Limitation of abduction of, motion lost beyond 10°. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.
Can Impairment of the Thigh (Hip Rotation/Adduction) qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Impairment of the Thigh (Hip Rotation/Adduction) may qualify for TDIU if the condition — alone or in combination with other service-connected disabilities — prevents substantially gainful employment. A single disability rated at 60% or higher (or multiple disabilities combining to 70%, with one at 40%) can support a TDIU claim under 38 CFR § 4.16.
What evidence do I need to establish service connection for Impairment of the Thigh (Hip Rotation/Adduction)?
Service connection for Impairment of the Thigh (Hip Rotation/Adduction) requires three elements: (1) a current diagnosis of the condition, (2) an in-service event, injury, or disease, and (3) a medical nexus linking the current diagnosis to that in-service occurrence. A nexus letter from a treating or independent medical examiner is the most reliable nexus evidence.
What is the C&P exam like for Impairment of the Thigh (Hip Rotation/Adduction)?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Impairment of the Thigh (Hip Rotation/Adduction) uses a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) specific to the body system involved. The examiner documents the frequency, severity, and functional impact of your symptoms. Bring all relevant treatment records and be prepared to describe your worst-day symptoms — the examiner rates your condition based on the full clinical picture, not a single visit.
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