Ankylosis of Hip

DC 5250Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5250

Complete fusion (ankylosis) of the hip joint, where the ball-and-socket joint is permanently fixed with no remaining motion. This can result from severe arthritis, infection, trauma, or surgical fusion. The VA rates hip ankylosis based on the position in which the hip is fixed and how that position affects function.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on objective clinical measurements and test results. The examiner will use standardized tests or lab values to determine the severity of your condition rather than relying primarily on subjective symptom reports.

Diagnostic code

DC 5250

Rating range

60% – 90%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5250. This guide presents a plain-language summary and is not a substitute for the full regulatory text. Always consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney for case-specific advice.

Rating Levels

You have unfavorable ankylosis of the hip — the hip is fused in an extremely unfavorable position, such as extreme abduction, flexion beyond 45 degrees, or extension. This makes sitting, standing, and walking extremely difficult.

What the VA looks for

Hip fused in extremely unfavorable position
Inability to place foot on ground when standing
Dependence on crutches or wheelchair for mobility
Complete inability to sit normally
Loss of use of the extremity may be applicable

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not distinguishing between severe limitation and true ankylosis — ankylosis requires complete absence of motion. If you have even a small amount of hip motion remaining, the hip should be rated under limitation of motion codes (DC 5251-5253) instead.
⚠Not requesting special monthly compensation — hip ankylosis at the 90 percent level often qualifies for loss of use of the extremity and SMC at a higher rate.
⚠Failing to document the exact position of fixation — the rating depends entirely on the position in which the hip is fused. The examiner must specify the degrees of flexion and any adduction/abduction.
⚠Not claiming secondary conditions — a fused hip causes compensatory stress on the opposite hip, both knees, and the lumbar spine, which should be claimed as secondary conditions.

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…

Ankylosis of Hip

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 5250

Rating range

60% – 90%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

Hip fused in extremely unfavorable position
Inability to place foot on ground when standing
Dependence on crutches or wheelchair for mobility
Complete inability to sit normally
Loss of use of the extremity may be applicable

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not distinguishing between severe limitation and true ankylosis — ankylosis requires complete absence of motion. If you have even a small amount of hip motion remaining, the hip should be rated under limitation of motion codes (DC 5251-5253) instead.

⚠Not requesting special monthly compensation — hip ankylosis at the 90 percent level often qualifies for loss of use of the extremity and SMC at a higher rate.

⚠Failing to document the exact position of fixation — the rating depends entirely on the position in which the hip is fused. The examiner must specify the degrees of flexion and any adduction/abduction.

⚠Not claiming secondary conditions — a fused hip causes compensatory stress on the opposite hip, both knees, and the lumbar spine, which should be claimed as secondary conditions.