How the VA Rates Hip Conditions
The plain-English version of the 38 CFR Part 4, DC 5250-5255 criteria a VA rater evaluates Hip Conditions against, with the 2026 monthly rate at each level. A reference to what the regulation describes — never a prediction of any rating.
Diagnostic codes 5250, 5251, 5252, 5253, 5254, 5255
The rating levels
Criteria paraphrased from 38 CFR Part 4, DC 5250-5255 for readability. Monthly amounts are the 2026 rate (effective December 1, 2025) for a veteran with no dependents if this were the only rated condition — dependents add more, and multiple conditions combine under the VA’s own math.
10%
$180.42/month
Flexion limited to 45 degrees or internal/external rotation limited to 15 degrees. OR slight instability.
Examples from this level’s criteria
- Hip stiffness and pain with walking
- Cannot flex hip past 45 degrees (difficulty with stairs, bending)
- Groin or lateral hip pain
20%
$356.66/month
Flexion limited to 30 degrees, or abduction limited to 10 degrees, or adduction limited to 10 degrees.
Examples from this level’s criteria
- Severe flexion limitation
- Cannot abduct leg (difficulty getting out of car, going up steps)
- Antalgic gait
30%
$552.47/month
Favorable ankylosis of the hip — hip is fused but in a position that still allows walking.
Examples from this level’s criteria
- Hip fused in a position allowing ambulation
- No hip motion at all
- Compensatory spine or knee changes
40%
$795.84/month
Replacement of head of femur (total hip arthroplasty) — minimum 30% for one year, then re-evaluated. In some cases rated at 40–100% based on residuals.
Examples from this level’s criteria
- Total hip replacement
- Post-surgical residuals: limited ROM, weakness, limp
70%
$1,808.45/month
Unfavorable ankylosis of the hip — fused in a position preventing useful ambulation (extension, severe abduction/adduction, or markedly unfavorable position).
Examples from this level’s criteria
- Hip fused in an unusable position
- Cannot walk without assistive device
- Extreme compensatory posturing
The listed symptoms are examples that appear in each level’s criteria — not a checklist that earns a percentage. Raters apply the criteria as a whole.
The evidence that matters most
Goniometer measurements of hip (thigh) flexion from the treating provider — degrees matter
C&P exam tips for Hip Conditions
- All planes of hip motion must be measured: flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, internal rotation, external rotation.
- Describe how the hip affects walking distance, going up/down stairs, getting in and out of vehicles.
- If you have had a replacement, request a full-year 30% minimum before re-evaluation.
- Mention associated conditions: avascular necrosis, trochanteric bursitis, radiculopathy.
Common mistakes on Hip Conditions claims
- Not documenting gait abnormalities — the examiner should observe you walking.
- Forgetting to claim associated secondary conditions (bursitis, contralateral hip, lumbar spine changes).
Frequently asked questions
What diagnostic code does the VA use for Hip Conditions?
Hip Conditions is rated under 38 CFR Part 4, DC 5250-5255 — diagnostic codes 5250, 5251, 5252, 5253, 5254, 5255.
What is the highest schedular VA rating for Hip Conditions?
70% is the highest level in the rating schedule for Hip Conditions. The criteria at that level describe: Unfavorable ankylosis of the hip — fused in a position preventing useful ambulation (extension, severe abduction/adduction, or markedly unfavorable position).
How much does a 70% VA rating for Hip Conditions pay in 2026?
$1,808.45 per month, tax-free, for a veteran with no dependents (rates effective December 1, 2025) — more with a spouse, children, or dependent parents. If you have other rated conditions, the VA combines ratings using its own math rather than adding them.
Build your Hip Conditions claim documentation
Your first claim builds free, on screen — a personal statement mapped to these criteria and a cited draft medical opinion. No card to sign up.
Start your claim — freeEducational information about the rating schedule — not legal or medical advice, never a prediction or promise of any rating, and not affiliated with the VA.