Limited hip bending (flexion)
The VA rates Limited hip bending (flexion) under Diagnostic Code 5252 across 5 severity levels, from 0% to 40%. 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: Limitation of Flexion of the Thigh (Hip).
Rating schedule — DC 5252 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 0%
- Maximum rating
- 40%
- Rating tiers
- 5
- CFR section
- § 4.71a, DC 5252
- Body system
- Musculoskeletal System
- Secondary conditions
- 0
Lowest schedular rating available
TDIU may raise effective compensation to 100%
0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Limited hip bending (flexion)?
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | Hip flexion greater than 45 degrees with no compensable limitation of motion. Note: Normal hip flexion is 0 to 125 degrees. Normal hip abduction is 0 to 45 degrees. |
| 10% | Flexion limited to 45° |
| 20% | Flexion limited to 30° |
| 30% | Flexion limited to 20° |
| 40% | Flexion limited to 10° Note: 40% is the maximum rating under DC 5252. |
“Flexion limited to 30°”
What other musculoskeletal conditions does the VA rate?
These diagnostic codes sit next to Limited hip bending (flexion) 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.
- 5241Spinal fusionRated up to 100%
- 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%
- 5253Impairment of the Thigh (Hip Rotation/Adduction)Rated up to 20%
- 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%
Common Questions About Limited hip bending (flexion) VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Limited hip bending (flexion)?
The VA rates Limited hip bending (flexion) under Diagnostic Code 5252 at 0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%. The minimum 0% rating requires: Hip flexion greater than 45 degrees with no compensable limitation of motion.. The maximum 40% rating requires: Flexion limited to 10°.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Limited hip bending (flexion)?
The VA rates Limited hip bending (flexion) under Diagnostic Code (DC) 5252, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a, DC 5252. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
What is the difference between a 0% and a 40% rating for Limited hip bending (flexion)?
A 0% rating requires: Hip flexion greater than 45 degrees with no compensable limitation of motion.. A 40% rating requires: Flexion limited to 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 bending (flexion) qualify for TDIU?
Possibly. Limited hip bending (flexion) maxes at 40%, which doesn't meet the single-disability TDIU threshold of 60% alone. However, if combined with other service-connected disabilities totaling 70%+ (with one at 40%+), TDIU under 38 CFR § 4.16(a) may apply. Extraschedular TDIU under § 4.16(b) is also available if the condition alone prevents work regardless of rating.
What evidence supports a higher rating for Limited hip bending (flexion)?
The key evidence for Limited hip bending (flexion) 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 bending (flexion)?
The C&P examiner uses a Musculoskeletal System DBQ and evaluates your condition against the DC 5252 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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