Total Hip Replacement (Arthroplasty)

DC 5054Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5054

A surgical procedure where a damaged hip joint is replaced with an artificial one. After a total hip replacement, the VA grants a temporary 100% rating for one year following surgery, then rates based on residual symptoms at a minimum of 30%.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on the type and intensity of treatment you require. Higher ratings correspond to more aggressive treatment regimens, such as daily medication, insulin dependence, or the need for ongoing medical management.

Diagnostic code

DC 5054

Rating range

30% – 90%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5054. 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 the most severe residuals after your hip replacement, with painful motion or weakness to the degree that you require assistive devices such as crutches for walking.

What the VA looks for

Painful motion requiring crutches or assistive device
Severe weakness in the affected extremity
Dependence on crutches or walker documented
Severe functional limitation in mobility

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not knowing you automatically receive 100% for one year after surgery — make sure your effective date is set to the date of surgery, and schedule a follow-up C&P exam before the year ends.
⚠After the 100% year, the VA must rate you at least 30% — this is the minimum. If you have ongoing severe pain or weakness, push for a higher rating.
⚠Not documenting ongoing pain, weakness, and limitations after recovery — the difference between 30% and 90% depends on the severity of chronic residuals.
⚠Not filing for secondary conditions — hip replacement can cause altered gait leading to knee problems, back pain, and opposite hip issues.
⚠Not requesting a crutch or assistive device prescription if needed — the 90% rating specifically requires showing the need for crutches.

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 Total Hip Replacement (Arthroplasty) 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

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

DC 9434·Mental Disorders·Possible secondary

DVT Residuals — Hematologic (Post-Thrombotic Syndrome)

DC 7121·Hematologic/Lymphatic·Possible secondary

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 5054

Rating range

30% – 90%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have the most severe residuals after your hip replacement, with painful motion or weakness to the degree that you require assistive devices such as crutches for walking.

What the VA looks for

Painful motion requiring crutches or assistive device
Severe weakness in the affected extremity
Dependence on crutches or walker documented
Severe functional limitation in mobility

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not knowing you automatically receive 100% for one year after surgery — make sure your effective date is set to the date of surgery, and schedule a follow-up C&P exam before the year ends.

⚠After the 100% year, the VA must rate you at least 30% — this is the minimum. If you have ongoing severe pain or weakness, push for a higher rating.

⚠Not documenting ongoing pain, weakness, and limitations after recovery — the difference between 30% and 90% depends on the severity of chronic residuals.

⚠Not filing for secondary conditions — hip replacement can cause altered gait leading to knee problems, back pain, and opposite hip issues.

⚠Not requesting a crutch or assistive device prescription if needed — the 90% rating specifically requires showing the need for crutches.