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Tibia and fibula, impairment of
Diagnostic code 5262 · Musculoskeletal system · 38 CFR 4.71a
Rating criteria: the exact regulation text
Quoted from 38 CFR 4.71a. The "Rating" column is the percentage VA assigns for that level.
| Criteria | Rating |
|---|---|
| 5262 Tibia and fibula, impairment of: | |
| Nonunion of, with loose motion, requiring brace | 40 |
| Malunion of: | |
| Evaluate under diagnostic codes 5256, 5257, 5260, or 5261 for the knee, or 5270 or 5271 for the ankle, whichever results in the highest evaluation. | |
| Medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS), or shin splints: | |
| Requiring treatment for no less than 12 consecutive months, and unresponsive to surgery and either shoe orthotics or other conservative treatment, both lower extremities | 30 |
| Requiring treatment for no less than 12 consecutive months, and unresponsive to surgery and either shoe orthotics or other conservative treatment, one lower extremity | 20 |
| Requiring treatment for no less than 12 consecutive months, and unresponsive to either shoe orthotics or other conservative treatment, one or both lower extremities | 10 |
| Treatment less than 12 consecutive months, one or both lower extremities | 0 |
Where else the regulation mentions this code
These lines appear under other codes or headings in the schedule and name this code.
With intermediate degrees of residual weakness, pain or limitation of motion rate by analogy to diagnostic codes 5256, 5261, or 5262.
Under diagnostic code 5055 (Knee, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis))
Note: At the conclusion of the 100 percent evaluation period, evaluate resurfacing under diagnostic codes 5256 through 5262; there is no minimum evaluation for resurfacing.
Under diagnostic code 5055 (Knee, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis))
Related codes in the regulation
- 5256 Knee, ankylosis ofRated using
- 5257 Knee, other impairment ofRated using
- 5260 Leg, limitation of flexion ofRated using
- 5261 Leg, limitation of extension ofRated using
- 5055 Knee, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis)Mentioned together
The VA exam form for this condition
VA examiners record their findings on a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ). Reading it shows you what the exam will measure and ask.
Rules that apply to this body system
Where this comes from
38 CFR 4.71a, VA's Schedule for Rating Disabilities, from the official eCFR.
Regulation text current as of October 16, 2026.
Change history for this code (38 CFR Part 4, Appendix A): Criterion February 7, 2021.
Read it on eCFR.govInformation, not advice
This page shows the text of VA's rating regulation for information. It is not a rating estimate, and it is not legal or medical advice. VA decides every rating on the evidence in your file.
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