Femoroacetabular Impingement (Hip Impingement)

DC 5255Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5255

Abnormal contact between the ball and socket of the hip joint causing pain and limited range of motion. The VA rates femoroacetabular impingement based on the degree of hip limitation of motion and impairment of the femur.

Rating Levels

You have hip impingement with marked limitation of hip motion or marked impairment of the femur. You have significant difficulty with daily activities and may require assistive devices for ambulation.

What the VA looks for

Marked limitation of hip range of motion
Flexion limited to 20 degrees or comparable severe limitation
Associated labral tear documented on MRI
Significant functional impairment in daily activities
Use of assistive device for ambulation

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting imaging (MRI or X-ray) that specifically shows the impingement morphology (cam or pincer type).
⚠Not documenting range of motion during flare-ups — measurements taken during a good day underrepresent your disability.
⚠Not claiming secondary labral tears, which are commonly caused by femoroacetabular impingement and may warrant a separate rating.
⚠Not connecting the condition to in-service physical activities such as running, rucking, parachute landings, or vehicle operations.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Hip and Thigh Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…