Impairment of the Thigh (Hip Rotation/Adduction) — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 5253)
The VA rates Impairment of the Thigh (Hip Rotation/Adduction) 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°. Related conditions in the Musculoskeletal body system share this rating framework.
What are the VA rating criteria for Impairment of the Thigh (Hip Rotation/Adduction)?
Hip rotation or adduction not limited to a compensable degree.
Limitation of adduction of, cannot cross legs
Limitation of abduction of, motion lost beyond 10°
“Limitation of adduction of, cannot cross legs”
How does the VA rate Musculoskeletal conditions?
Common Questions About Impairment of the Thigh (Hip Rotation/Adduction) VA Ratings
What is the VA disability rating for Impairment of the Thigh (Hip Rotation/Adduction)?
The VA rates Impairment of the Thigh (Hip Rotation/Adduction) under Diagnostic Code 5253 at the following tiers: 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°.
What is Diagnostic Code 5253?
Diagnostic Code 5253 is the VA rating identifier for Impairment of the Thigh (Hip Rotation/Adduction) within 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a, DC 5253. It defines the specific symptom criteria and percentage thresholds a VA adjudicator uses to assign a disability rating. The diagnostic code is listed on a veteran's rating decision letter.
What is the highest rating for Impairment of the Thigh (Hip Rotation/Adduction)?
The highest schedular rating for Impairment of the Thigh (Hip Rotation/Adduction) under DC 5253 is 20%. This tier requires: Limitation of abduction of, motion lost beyond 10°. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Impairment of the Thigh (Hip Rotation/Adduction) alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.
What 38 CFR section governs Impairment of the Thigh (Hip Rotation/Adduction) ratings?
Impairment of the Thigh (Hip Rotation/Adduction) is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a, DC 5253, Diagnostic Code 5253. This section is part of the Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR Part 4) and can be read in full at the eCFR website.
Which conditions are commonly secondary to Impairment of the Thigh (Hip Rotation/Adduction)?
Secondary conditions caused or aggravated by Impairment of the Thigh (Hip Rotation/Adduction) may be ratable under 38 CFR § 3.310. Veterans should work with a VSO or accredited claims agent to document the medical relationship.
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 that may have caused or aggravated it, and (3) a medical nexus connecting the current diagnosis to that in-service event. A nexus letter from a treating physician or independent medical examiner is the most reliable nexus evidence. C&P exam findings can also establish nexus if adequately documented.
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