Diagnostic Code 5253 · 38 CFR §4.71a
DC 5253 covers hip impairment involving rotation and adduction limitations that are not captured by the flexion or extension codes. This includes inability to cross your legs, difficulty rotating your leg inward or outward, and limited ability to move your leg toward the midline of your body. These movement restrictions commonly result from hip injuries, labral tears, arthritis, or surgical complications related to military service. While they may seem minor compared to flexion loss, they significantly affect how you walk, sit, and perform everyday movements.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | |
| 20% |
Range of motion measurements for rotation, adduction, and abduction, Medical records documenting the hip condition causing the impairment, Imaging of the hip joint showing structural issues, Statements describing how these limitations affect walking and daily tasks, Documentation of pain during specific movements