VASRD 5251 · Musculoskeletal System
Thigh, Limitation of Extension VA Disability Rating
This diagnostic code covers limited hip and thigh extension - difficulty moving the leg backward from the hip - which is a distinct, specific measurement separate from general hip or thigh pain. Because there's only a single 10% rating tier for this code, the entire claim depends on documenting that the extension loss meets the specific threshold.
VA Rating Tiers
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | Can't fully straighten leg by 5 degrees |
How the VA Evaluates Thigh, Limitation of Extension
The rating requires a measured limitation of thigh extension to 5 degrees or worse, confirmed with a goniometer or detailed physical exam - this is a single-tier, threshold-based rating rather than a graduated scale, so the measurement itself is the entire basis of the claim.
Approval outlook
Moderate – needs clear physical measurement.
Veterans service-connected
~85,000 veterans
Typical rating awarded
~10%
Vetrify editorial estimates informed by VA published claims data (VBA Annual Benefits Report) and the VA rating schedule — not official VA statistics.
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Best Evidence to Gather
- •Range-of-motion test results specifically measuring thigh extension.
- •An orthopedic exam that documents restricted extension using objective measurement, not just a pain complaint.
Strategy Tips
- •Make sure your provider performs an actual goniometer-based motion test rather than a general hip exam, since this code rates a specific measured angle, not general hip discomfort.
- •Describe how the limitation affects walking, standing, or work tasks that require hip extension, like climbing stairs or walking uphill.
- •Note any related impacts on the knee or back, since altered gait from limited thigh extension often places compensatory strain on nearby joints, which can support related secondary claims.
C&P Exam Pitfalls
- •Not using a goniometer during the exam, since this code is rated on a specific measured angle that general observation can't substitute for.
- •Reporting pain without any accompanying range-of-motion measurement, which leaves no objective basis for this specific rating.
Common Filing Mistakes
- •Complaining only of pain without requesting or including formal motion testing, since this code requires a measured extension loss, not a symptom description.
- •Submitting a claim with no documented evidence of the actual degree of extension loss, since the single rating tier is threshold-based on that measurement.
Onset Patterns
- •Limited thigh extension often follows a prior injury, surgery, or chronic overuse affecting the hip or upper thigh.
- •It can also develop or worsen gradually alongside arthritis or aging, particularly if an old injury was never fully rehabilitated.
Secondary Conditions
Conditions commonly linked to Thigh, Limitation of Extension. Service-connecting a secondary condition can increase your combined rating.
Common questions about Thigh, Limitation of Extension
- Is Thigh, Limitation of Extension a VA-rated disability?
- Yes. The VA rates Thigh, Limitation of Extension under VASRD diagnostic code 5251 (Musculoskeletal System). This diagnostic code covers limited hip and thigh extension - difficulty moving the leg backward from the hip - which is a distinct, specific measurement separate from general hip or thigh pain. Because there's…
- What VA disability rating can I get for Thigh, Limitation of Extension?
- Possible VA ratings for Thigh, Limitation of Extension are 10%. Examples: 10%: Can't fully straighten leg by 5 degrees.
- What's the typical VA rating awarded for Thigh, Limitation of Extension?
- Vetrify estimates the typical rating awarded for Thigh, Limitation of Extension at around 10%, based on VA claims data and the rating schedule. An estimated 85,000 veterans are service-connected for Thigh, Limitation of Extension. Estimated approval outlook: Moderate – needs clear physical measurement.
- What evidence helps prove Thigh, Limitation of Extension for VA disability?
- Strong evidence for a Thigh, Limitation of Extension claim includes: Range-of-motion test results specifically measuring thigh extension.; An orthopedic exam that documents restricted extension using objective measurement, not just a pain complaint..
- What mistakes should veterans avoid when claiming Thigh, Limitation of Extension?
- Common pitfalls when filing for Thigh, Limitation of Extension: Complaining only of pain without requesting or including formal motion testing, since this code requires a measured extension loss, not a symptom description.; Submitting a claim with no documented evidence of the actual degree of extension loss, since th…
- What conditions are commonly secondary to Thigh, Limitation of Extension?
- Conditions often service-connected as secondary to Thigh, Limitation of Extension include: Knee Pain, Back Strain. Filing for secondary conditions can increase a veteran's combined VA rating.
Official sources
- 38 CFR § 4.71a — Schedule of ratings — musculoskeletal system (Diagnostic Code 5251)
Rating criteria on this page are an educational summary of the cited regulation — the eCFR text is authoritative. See how Vetrify derives its numbers.
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