Hip Limitation of Extension

DC 5251Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5251

Limited ability to extend your hip (move your leg backward). The VA provides only one rating level for hip extension limitation. Normal extension is 0 degrees beyond neutral.

Rating Levels

Your thigh extension is limited to 5 degrees. This is the only rating level for limitation of hip extension.

What the VA looks for

Hip extension limited to 5 degrees
Range of motion measured by goniometer
Pain on extension documented
Difficulty walking with normal stride

Common Pitfalls

⚠DC 5251 has only one rating level (10%) — if your hip condition is more severe, make sure the examiner also evaluates flexion limitation (DC 5252), which goes up to 40%.
⚠Not filing for hip flexion limitation (DC 5252) separately — you can receive ratings under both codes for the same hip if both motions are limited.
⚠Not documenting the functional impact of extension limitation on walking — a normal gait requires hip extension, so even mild limitation affects daily life.
⚠Not pursuing secondary claims for back and knee conditions caused by hip problems affecting your walking pattern.

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…