Femur, Impairment of

Femur, Impairment of is a VA-ratable condition under diagnostic code 5255 in the Hip & Thigh category. Maximum rating: 80%.

Hip Range of Motion

Hip Range of Motion - 38 CFR § 4.71

Source: 38 CFR § 4.71 - Measurement of ankylosis and joint motion

Rating Criteria

Rating Criteria
80% Fracture of shaft or anatomical neck of: With nonunion, with loose motion (spiral or oblique fracture)
60% Fracture of shaft or anatomical neck of: With nonunion, without loose motion, weight bearing preserved with aid of brace
60% Fracture of surgical neck of, with false joint

Important Notes

Malunion of femur: Rate under diagnostic codes 5256, 5257, 5260, or 5261 for the knee, or 5250-5254 for the hip, whichever results in the highest evaluation

Filing Tips

Pro Tip: The VA won't connect the dots for you. That's your job. Build the paper trail before you file.

Gather medical evidence showing a current diagnosis of this condition.

Document in-service events, injuries, or exposures that caused or aggravated this condition.

Consider a nexus letter from a medical professional linking your condition to service.

Review the rating criteria for DC 5255 to understand what symptoms warrant higher ratings.