Limited hip rotation or sideways movement
The VA rates Limited hip rotation or sideways movement under Diagnostic Code 5253 across 3 severity levels, from 0% to 20%. The applicable level depends on the full criteria and the evidence for the condition. These percentages are alternatives, not amounts to add together.
Catalog name: Impairment of the Thigh (Hip Rotation/Adduction).
Rating schedule — DC 5253 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 0%
- Maximum rating
- 20%
- Rating tiers
- 3
- CFR section
- § 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 Limited hip rotation or sideways movement?
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | 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. |
| 10% | 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. |
| 20% | Limitation of abduction of, motion lost beyond 10° Note: 20% is the maximum rating under DC 5253. |
“Limitation of adduction of, cannot cross legs”
What other musculoskeletal conditions does the VA rate?
These diagnostic codes sit next to Limited hip rotation or sideways movement in 38 CFR Part 4. The rating schedule is ordered anatomically, so neighbouring codes usually cover the same joint, organ, or system, and a claim often involves more than one of them.
- 5243Intervertebral Disc Syndrome (IVDS)Rated up to 100%
- 5244Traumatic paralysis, completeRated up to 60%
- 5250Hip, ankylosis ofRated up to 70%
- 5251Thigh, limitation of extension ofRated up to 10%
- 5252Limitation of Flexion of the Thigh (Hip)Rated up to 40%
- 5254Hip, flail jointRated up to 80%
- 5255Femur, impairment ofRated up to 80%
- 5256Knee, ankylosis ofRated up to 60%
- 5257Knee, other impairment ofRated up to 30%
- 5258Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the jointRated up to 20%
Common Questions About Limited hip rotation or sideways movement VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Limited hip rotation or sideways movement?
The VA rates Limited hip rotation or sideways movement 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 Limited hip rotation or sideways movement?
The VA rates Limited hip rotation or sideways movement 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 Limited hip rotation or sideways movement?
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 Limited hip rotation or sideways movement qualify for TDIU?
Limited hip rotation or sideways movement maxes at 20%, well below the single-disability TDIU threshold. However, combined with other service-connected disabilities, TDIU may be achievable under 38 CFR § 4.16. Focus on establishing secondary conditions to increase the combined rating.
What evidence supports a higher rating for Limited hip rotation or sideways movement?
The key evidence for Limited hip rotation or sideways movement is documentation of how the condition affects daily functioning. For musculoskeletal conditions, range of motion measurements (active, passive, weight-bearing, and non-weight-bearing per Correia v. McDonald) and flare-up documentation are critical. A nexus letter from a qualified medical professional linking the current severity to service is essential for contested claims.
What happens at the C&P exam for Limited hip rotation or sideways movement?
The C&P examiner uses a Musculoskeletal System DBQ and evaluates your condition against the DC 5253 rating criteria. Expect range of motion testing in multiple positions. Under Correia v. McDonald, the examiner must test active, passive, weight-bearing, and non-weight-bearing range of motion. Report your worst flare-up symptoms — if you cannot attend during a flare, request the exam be rescheduled.
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