Muscle Group XVII VA Disability Rating

Diagnostic Code 5317 · 38 CFR §4.73

What Is It?

Muscle Group XVII includes the pelvic girdle muscles that extend the hip, primarily the gluteus maximus, gluteus medius, and gluteus minimus. These are the large buttock muscles responsible for hip extension, standing upright from a bent position, climbing, and maintaining pelvic stability during walking. They are among the most powerful muscles in the body and are essential for virtually all upright activities. Military injuries from penetrating wounds to the buttock area, blast injuries, and falls can damage these muscles.

Rating Criteria

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Evidence Needed

Service records documenting the buttock or pelvic muscle injury, Treatment and surgical records, Hip extension strength testing, Assessment of Trendelenburg gait if present, Statements about difficulty with standing, walking, climbing, and sitting comfort

Frequently Asked Questions