Hip Limitation of Flexion

DC 5252Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5252

Limited ability to bend your hip (bring your thigh toward your chest). The VA rates hip flexion limitation based on how far you can flex your hip, measured in degrees. Normal flexion is 125 degrees.

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 5252

Rating range

10% – 40%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5252. 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 hip flexion is limited to 10 degrees. This is the maximum rating for limitation of hip flexion.

What the VA looks for

Hip flexion limited to 10 degrees
Near-total loss of hip flexion
Severe difficulty walking, sitting, or bending

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not knowing that hip flexion (DC 5252) and hip extension (DC 5251) can be rated separately — if you have limitation in both directions, file for both.
⚠Not documenting pain on motion and flare-ups — DeLuca factors can push a borderline measurement to a higher rating level.
⚠Not filing for secondary conditions — hip problems commonly cause back pain, opposite knee issues, and altered gait patterns.
⚠Not requesting imaging (X-ray or MRI) to document the underlying cause — arthritis, labral tears, or avascular necrosis may support a stronger claim.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Hip and Thigh Conditions

View evidence checklist →C&P exam prep guide →See secondary conditions →

Related Conditions

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

Lumbar Strain (Low Back Pain)

DC 5237·Musculoskeletal·Possible secondary

Knee Limitation of Flexion

DC 5260·Musculoskeletal·Possible secondary

Radiculopathy — Sciatic Nerve

DC 8520·Neurological·Possible secondary

Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction

DC 5236·Musculoskeletal·Related primary

Cervical Strain (Neck Pain)

DC 5237·Musculoskeletal

Knee Limitation of Extension

DC 5261·Musculoskeletal

Knee Instability (Subluxation)

DC 5257·Musculoskeletal

Plantar Fasciitis (Foot Pain)

DC 5276·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 5252

Rating range

10% – 40%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Your hip flexion is limited to 10 degrees. This is the maximum rating for limitation of hip flexion.

What the VA looks for

Hip flexion limited to 10 degrees
Near-total loss of hip flexion
Severe difficulty walking, sitting, or bending

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not knowing that hip flexion (DC 5252) and hip extension (DC 5251) can be rated separately — if you have limitation in both directions, file for both.

⚠Not documenting pain on motion and flare-ups — DeLuca factors can push a borderline measurement to a higher rating level.

⚠Not filing for secondary conditions — hip problems commonly cause back pain, opposite knee issues, and altered gait patterns.

⚠Not requesting imaging (X-ray or MRI) to document the underlying cause — arthritis, labral tears, or avascular necrosis may support a stronger claim.