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.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition primarily based on range-of-motion measurements. During your C&P exam, the examiner will use a goniometer to measure how far you can move the affected joint. Pain, flare-ups, and repetitive-use limitations also factor into the final rating.

Diagnostic code

DC 5251

Rating range

10% – 10%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5251. 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

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 →

Related Conditions

Conditions commonly associated with Hip Limitation of Extension or rated under the same body system.

Lumbar Strain (Low Back Pain)

DC 5237·Musculoskeletal

Cervical Strain (Neck Pain)

DC 5237·Musculoskeletal

Knee Limitation of Flexion

DC 5260·Musculoskeletal

Knee Limitation of Extension

DC 5261·Musculoskeletal

Knee Instability (Subluxation)

DC 5257·Musculoskeletal

Plantar Fasciitis (Foot Pain)

DC 5276·Musculoskeletal

Degenerative Arthritis (Osteoarthritis)

DC 5003·Musculoskeletal

Fibromyalgia

DC 5025·Musculoskeletal

Condition Rating Guides

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

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 5251

Rating range

10% – 10%

Rating levels

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.