---
title: "DC 5251 - Thigh, limitation of extension of:"
diagnostic_code: "5251"
body_system: "Musculoskeletal System"
cfr_section: "§ 4.71a"
canonical: "https://veteranai.co/va-rating-schedule/musculoskeletal/5251-thigh-limitation-of-extension-of"
source: "https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-4.71a"
updated: "2026-07-21T20:00:42.966584Z"
---

# DC 5251 - Thigh, limitation of extension of:

Rated under § 4.71a. Body system: Musculoskeletal System.

## Rating criteria

| Rating | Criteria |
| --- | --- |
| 10% | Extension limited to 5° |

# Limitation of Extension of the Thigh (Diagnostic Code 5251)

## Understanding This Rating

**Diagnostic Code:** 5251
**Condition:** Thigh, limitation of extension of
**Body System:** Musculoskeletal System
**Regulation:** 38 CFR § 4.71a

---

## What This Condition Is

Limitation of extension of the thigh refers to a reduced ability to move the thigh backward at the hip joint. "Extension" is the motion that carries the thigh rearward, away from the front of the body. When this range of motion is restricted, everyday activities that depend on hip movement can become more difficult.

The VA evaluates this condition under Diagnostic Code 5251, which is part of the schedule of ratings for the musculoskeletal system in 38 CFR § 4.71a.

---

## Available Rating Level

Under Diagnostic Code 5251, the following rating level is available:

| Rating | What It Reflects |
|--------|------------------|
| **10%** | Extension of the thigh limited to 5° |

---

## What the VA Looks For

When rating limitation of extension of the thigh, the VA focuses on the measured range of motion at the hip. Specifically, the criteria under this diagnostic code address how far backward the thigh can extend.

- A **10% rating** applies when extension is limited to 5°.

Because this evaluation is based on measured limitation of motion, medical documentation describing the degree of extension in the affected hip is central to how the condition is assessed under this diagnostic code.

---

*This information is drawn directly from the VA rating schedule under 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5251. It is provided for general informational purposes and does not guarantee any particular rating outcome.*

Source: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-4.71a