★ Musculoskeletal
Joint Replacement (Knee/Hip) VA Rating
38 CFR § 4.71a, DC 5054 (hip) / DC 5055 (knee)
Overview
Applies only to total joint replacements — not partial replacements or arthroscopy.
After the one-year 100% period, residuals (pain, weakness, instability, limited motion) are rated.
How to Establish Service Connection
- Secondary to a service-connected knee or hip condition that necessitated the replacement.
- Direct if the original joint disease was service-connected.
Rating Criteria
Paraphrased from 38 CFR § 4.71a, DC 5054 (hip) / DC 5055 (knee)
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | For 1 year following implantation of the prosthesis (DC 5054/5055). |
| 30% | Minimum rating after the 1-year period. |
| 60% (knee) / 70% (hip) | Markedly severe residual weakness, pain, or limitation of motion. |
See what each percentage pays in 2026 and how it combines with your current rating →
Evidence Checklist
- Operative report and prosthesis records.
- Post-op physical therapy notes.
- C&P exam documenting residuals one year post-op.
Common Secondary Conditions
Conditions frequently service-connected as secondary to Joint Replacement (Knee/Hip):
Frequently Asked Questions
Have a Joint Replacement (Knee/Hip) claim or denial?
Four fields. A VA-accredited claims agent reviews it and responds within 3–5 business days. Contingent fees apply only to awarded past-due benefits on appeals — never on initial claims.
Requesting a consultation does not create representation and is not a guarantee of any outcome. Representation begins only after a written fee agreement and VA Form 21-22a are signed.
Educational content only — not legal advice and not medical advice. Rating criteria on this page are summarized in plain English from 38 CFR Part 4; consult VA.gov or the current Code of Federal Regulations for official criteria. This page provides general education about how the VA rates this condition; it is not individualized advice, does not establish a representation relationship, and should not be used to self-diagnose, self-treat, or decide a course of action without speaking to a qualified clinician and a VA-accredited representative. Outcomes depend on each veteran's individual facts, evidence, and the adjudicator's judgment; no specific rating, effective date, or other result is guaranteed. Oakridge Claims is a private business and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by the US Department of Veterans Affairs.