38 CFR Part 4 — 38 CFR § 4.71a
Hip replacement (prosthetic joint)
dc-5054-hip-replacement
Musculoskeletal
Diagnostic code
5054
Why your DC matters: DC 5054 is the exact code the VA uses to rate this condition. It determines which symptoms unlock which percentage, what evidence the rater looks for, and which secondaries are most likely to be approved.
Last verified against 38 CFR (eCFR Part 4):
Rating criteria (38 CFR Part 4)
Diagnostic code 5054 — Hip replacement (prosthetic joint) — is listed under 38 CFR § 4.71a in 38 CFR Part 4. The paragraphs below summarize how this code is used; the official schedule text controls exact percentages, formulas, and notes.
Schedule summary (educational, not a substitute for the regulation): 4 months at 100% following implantation; 30% minimum for total replacement thereafter, with up to 90% available for painful motion or weakness requiring crutches.
Exact rating criteria: Open Part 4 in the eCFR (link under “Official source” below). Locate your diagnostic code number (5054) in the correct body-system subpart, or use Find in Page (Ctrl+F / ⌘F) for “5054”. Copy the verbatim rating table, including any parenthetical notes, exceptions, and cross-references, for the version of Part 4 that applies to your effective date.
Effective dates & which schedule version applies
Which diagnostic code, percentage, and effective date apply depends on the facts of your claim and the version of the rating schedule in force for the period being decided. Generally, VA applies the schedule in effect at the specified time under 38 U.S.C. § 5110 and implementing rules, subject to exceptions (e.g., protected ratings, liberalizing law changes—see regulation and VA manual policy as applicable).
For older claims, the **current** eCFR may not match the text that applied years ago. If your decision references a prior percentage or code, compare against the Part 4 text **as of** your claim’s relevant dates; historical Federal Register / CFR snapshots may be needed for precise comparison.
The “Last verified” date on this page is when we last checked this educational summary against the electronic CFR—not the date of any VA policy or your personal claim decision.
Notes for your claim
Evidence: Show that your diagnosis and severity match the factors the schedule names for DC 5054 (e.g., measurements, frequency, treatment, functional loss), with medical and lay evidence as appropriate.
C&P exams: Results should reflect the schedule’s requirements (correct joints measured, correct formulas). If the exam omits required findings, consider submitting records or requesting clarification.
If you disagree with the DC, percentage, or effective date, review the Part 4 text for your period and consider a supplemental claim or appeal with a VA-accredited representative.
This site does not provide legal advice.
Official source
38 CFR Part 4 (eCFR) — locate diagnostic code 5054 in the subpart for your body system (use Find in Page if needed).
DC 5054 hip prosthesis follows the same post-operative + residuals pattern as DC 5055 knee replacement but with a key difference at the top: hip prosthesis caps at 90% (with crutches) and 70% (markedly severe residuals), versus the knee's 60% cap. Bottom line — a well-evidenced hip replacement claim with severe residuals can reach 90%, before any back or altered-gait secondaries stack. The two-phase rating mechanic is identical: 4 months at 100% after implantation, then residuals-based ratings (minimum 30% for total replacement).
Rating Tiers — What Each Percentage Requires
| Rating | What It Takes | Evidence That Supports It |
|---|---|---|
| 100% | For 4 months following implantation of prosthesis or resurfacing. | Operative report establishes the 4-month 100% window. |
| 90% | Following implantation, with painful motion or weakness such as to require the use of crutches. | Documented crutch use + chart notes of painful motion or weakness post-recovery period. |
| 70% | Markedly severe residual weakness, pain, or limitation of motion following implantation. | ROM measurements showing significant deficit; severe pain on motion; manual muscle testing showing weakness; gait disturbance. |
| 50% | Moderately severe residuals of weakness, pain, or limitation of motion. | ROM + pain + strength findings consistent with moderate-to-severe functional limitation. |
| 30% | Minimum evaluation, total replacement only. | Operative report alone establishes the 30% floor. Applies only to total replacement (not resurfacing/partial). |
What Qualifies Under DC 5054?
Surgical hip replacement or resurfacing
Total, partial, or hip resurfacing procedure. Operative report establishes the date and type.
Two-phase rating
DC 5054 has a unique structure:
- • 4 months at 100% post-operatively (automatic)
- • 30% minimum for total replacement (permanent floor)
- • 50% — moderately severe residuals
- • 70% — markedly severe residuals (pain, weakness, ROM deficit)
- • 90% — painful motion or weakness requiring crutches
Language Your Rater Needs to See
These are the exact (or near-exact) regulatory phrases that unlock specific tiers. If your DBQ or C&P report doesn't use this vocabulary, the rater may default to a lower percentage even when symptoms qualify.
“For 4 months following implantation of prosthesis or resurfacing”
Verbatim from DC 5054 — distinct from older VA practice that some veterans confuse with the 13-month knee window. Hip prosthesis = 4 months at 100%, then residuals rating. Confirm the 4-month period was paid out — short pay is a common error.
“Painful motion or weakness such as to require the use of crutches”
90% gate. Crutch use must be documented in chart notes or PT records. Cane alone may support 70% but not 90% — crutches are specifically called out in the schedule.
“Markedly severe residual weakness, pain, or limitation of motion”
Verbatim from the schedule. 'Markedly severe' is the rater's hook — push the orthopedist or PT to chart that exact phrase or document measurable findings (≥ 50% ROM deficit + manual muscle testing 3/5 or worse + severe pain on motion).
Evidence Checklist — Specific to This Condition
Operative report from hip replacement / resurfacing
CRITICALSurgery date establishes the 4-month 100% start. Total vs. resurfacing vs. partial determines the 30% floor applicability.
Post-op physical therapy records
CRITICALROM progression, pain scores, gait assessment. Documents residuals severity.
Current orthopedic + PT evaluation
CRITICALROM in degrees (flexion, abduction, internal/external rotation), strength testing (MMT or dynamometer), pain on motion, gait. Drives 30/50/70/90% tiers.
Assistive device use documentation
IMPORTANTCane, walker, crutches — each is evidence. Crutch use specifically anchors 90%. Document in chart or with prescriber note.
Imaging (x-ray; sometimes CT)
SUPPORTINGLoosening, alignment, component wear. Component failure escalates rating significantly.
C&P Exam Tips
Bring crutches/walker/cane to the exam if you use them
Show, don't tell. Examiner notes ambulation aid use as objective evidence.
Bring recent ortho/PT goniometric measurements
Numerical ROM data (flexion °, abduction °, internal/external rotation °) anchors the rating. Strength values from MMT or dynamometer are objective.
Describe pain by activity, not just intensity
'Pain at 60° flexion that prevents getting in/out of a car' beats 'pain 8/10.' Functional impact drives severity.
Don't say 'My hip is fine since the surgery'
Even if you're functioning well, describe residuals — stiffness on cold mornings, limp after long walks, asymmetric gait. The 30% floor applies regardless, but pushing toward 50/70/90 requires documented residuals.
Common Mistakes That Cost Veterans Points
Missing the 4-month 100% retro pay
If you weren't rated 100% for 4 months following surgery, file supplemental immediately. The 4-month 100% window is automatic per DC 5054.
Accepting 30% residuals without ROM evaluation
30% is the floor for TOTAL replacement only, not the ceiling. With current PT/ortho evidence of pain + ROM deficit + weakness, 50, 70, or 90% is reachable.
Not filing the surgical scar
Total hip replacement leaves a sizable scar. DC 7804 (painful scar) rates separately.
Missing the altered-gait secondaries
Post-THA gait changes drive back, contralateral hip, knee, ankle complaints. Each can rate separately if documented.
Tactical Plays
⚡ Verify you got the 4-month 100% post-op rating + retro pay
The 4-month 100% rating after hip replacement is automatic per DC 5054. If your decision letter shows 30% immediately after surgery without the 4-month window, file supplemental NOW citing DC 5054.
⚡ Push for 70 or 90% residuals — don't accept the 30% floor
30% is the minimum for total replacement, not the typical outcome. With documented painful motion + measurable weakness + ambulation-aid use, 70% (markedly severe) or 90% (crutches) is reachable. Get a comprehensive ortho + PT evaluation BEFORE the residuals exam.
⚡ Audit altered-gait secondaries
Hip arthroplasty changes the entire kinetic chain. Back, contralateral hip, knee, ankle complaints frequently develop. Each can rate separately if documented.
Secondary Conditions to File With This One
Painful surgical scar
STRONGDC 7804
Total hip replacement scar is large; if painful or unstable, rate separately under DC 7804.
Low back pain from altered gait
MODERATEDC 5237 / 5242
Post-THA gait changes drive lumbar spine complaints; secondary pathway available if documented.
Contralateral hip overuse
MODERATEDC 5252 / 5253 / 5255
Compensating for the replaced hip accelerates degeneration in the opposite hip; pursue if symptomatic.
Knee / ankle pain from gait change
SITUATIONALDC 5260 / 5271
Altered gait can drive ipsilateral knee or ankle complaints; rate separately if disabling.
Depression secondary to chronic pain
MODERATEDC 9434
Chronic post-surgical hip pain → depression is well-established medical chain.
Compensation Scenarios
2026 rates (effective Dec 1, 2025, per va.gov)
30% — single, no dependents
Base rating
$552.47
TOTAL
$552.47/mo
Minimum total hip replacement, no residuals documented.
50% — single, no dependents
Base rating
$1,132.90
TOTAL
$1,132.90/mo
Moderately severe residuals — pain, ROM deficit, mild weakness.
70% — single, no dependents
Base rating
$1,808.45
TOTAL
$1,808.45/mo
Markedly severe residuals — significant pain + weakness + ROM deficit.
90% — single, no dependents
Base rating
$2,362.30
TOTAL
$2,362.30/mo
Painful motion or weakness requiring crutches.
100% post-op (months 1-4)
Base rating
$3,938.58
TOTAL
$3,938.58/mo
Automatic 100% for 4 months following implantation. Verify your decision letter reflects this window.
Note: Amounts are approximations rounded to nearest dollar. Actual comp varies with effective date, dependents (spouse, children, parents — each adds), Aid & Attendance, and additional disabilities. Combined ratings use VA Math (§ 4.25), not simple addition.
Key Definitions
📅Why only 4 months at 100% (not a year)?
DC 5054 specifies '4 months following implantation' for the 100% rating — that's the language in the schedule. Some veterans confuse this with longer post-op periods used for other surgeries; the hip schedule is 4 months exactly.
🔁Does resurfacing get the 100% window too?
Yes — the 4-month 100% applies to 'implantation of prosthesis or resurfacing.' Both qualify. The 30% minimum floor, however, applies only to TOTAL replacement.
🩼What counts as 'crutches' for 90%?
Two-arm crutches (axillary or forearm) specifically. Cane alone or walker may not qualify for the 90% tier — the schedule names crutches. Document prescriber note or PT chart entry showing crutch use.
How to File Your Claim
Pull operative report from the hip replacement
Date + total vs. resurfacing vs. partial. Establishes the 4-month 100% window and 30% floor.
Get current ortho + PT evaluation
ROM in degrees, strength testing, pain on motion, gait assessment, assistive device use.
Document assistive device use
Cane vs. walker vs. crutches. Crutches specifically anchor 90%.
File 21-526EZ specifying 'hip replacement (DC 5054)'
Reference operative date for the 4-month window if recent. Reference current residuals if past the 4-month period.
Stack surgical scar + altered-gait secondaries
DC 7804 for painful scar. DC 5237/5242 for back. DC 5260 for contralateral knee.
Typical Claim Timeline
File initial claim
Day 0–7: Submit VA Form 21-526EZ with all medical evidence on file
VA acknowledges claim
Week 1–2: Receive confirmation letter and claim tracking number
C&P examination scheduled
Month 1–3: VA contracts an exam vendor and sends you appointment notice
Attend C&P exam
Bring your full evidence package; describe symptoms on your worst days, not your best
Decision & rating notice
Month 3–6: Decision letter with rating percentage and effective date
First payment & retro back pay
Within 15 days of decision; retroactive to claim date (or effective date if earlier)
Timeline varies by case complexity and VA regional office workload. Some claims resolve faster; others take longer.
Important Considerations
4-month 100% is automatic — claim retro if missed
If decision shows 30% straight after surgery without the 4-month 100% window, file supplemental. Retro pay difference is significant.
90% requires CRUTCHES specifically
Cane alone may support 50-70% but the 90% tier names crutches. Document explicitly if applicable.
30% floor is for TOTAL replacement only
Resurfacing or partial replacement doesn't auto-qualify for the 30% minimum — rate on residuals alone.
Altered gait drives multiple secondaries
Back, contralateral hip, knees, ankles — audit each post-THA.
Related Tools & Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the 100% post-op only 4 months for hip but veterans hear 'a year' for knee?
Both DC 5054 (hip) and DC 5055 (knee) specify 4 months at 100% in the current regulation. The '13-month' figure that circulates informally is from older VA practice or misinterpretation — the current schedule language is 4 months for both. Verify your decision letter against the schedule.
Can I get above the 30% floor without major residuals?
Yes — but you need objective evidence. Goniometric ROM showing flexion < 90°, MMT showing 3/5 or worse strength, documented crutch use, and severe pain on motion all push toward 50/70/90%.
Does hip resurfacing qualify the same as total replacement?
For the 4-month 100% post-op rating, yes. For the 30% minimum floor afterward, no — that floor applies only to total replacement. Resurfacing/partial cases rate purely on residuals.
Should I file the scar separately?
Yes — total hip replacement leaves a substantial scar. If painful or unstable, file DC 7804 separately. Each adds to your combined rating.
Official Regulatory Source
Hip replacement is rated under 38 CFR § 4.71a, DC 5054 — 4 months at 100%, 30% minimum thereafter (total only), up to 90%.
38 CFR § 4.71a — Musculoskeletal System (eCFR) →Scroll to DC 5054. Compare to DC 5055 (knee) which has the same post-op structure but different residuals cap.
Next Steps
If your rating decision lists DC 5054, compare your current symptoms and documentation against the criteria above. Consider:
- Requesting a copy of your rating decision and C&P exam report from the VA
- Gathering all relevant medical records (VA and private providers)
- Documenting functional limitations and how they impact work and daily activities
- Obtaining a nexus letter if needed to establish or strengthen service connection
- Filing for secondary conditions that may be related to this primary condition
- Contacting a VA-accredited VSO, claims agent, or attorney to review your file
This is general educational information only — not legal or medical advice.
Also: DC code lookup (tools) lists the same index in a compact layout.
Source: 38 CFR Part 4, Diagnostic Code 5054 • va.gov
⚠️ Important Disclaimer
This page provides general educational information only based on public VA regulations (38 CFR) and va.gov resources. It is not legal, medical, or claims assistance. Ratings and service connections are decided case-by-case by the VA based on the individual veteran’s evidence. We do not prepare claims, generate documents, or provide personalized advice. Always consult a VA-accredited Veterans Service Organization (VSO), attorney, or your physician for help with your specific situation. Verify the latest rules on va.gov.