Diagnostic Code 5262 · 38 CFR §4.71a
This code covers impairment of the tibia (shinbone) and fibula (the smaller bone running alongside it), including nonunion, malunion, and medial tibial stress syndrome (shin splints). The revised criteria now rate malunion based on the resulting knee or ankle disability under those specific diagnostic codes rather than the old slight/moderate/marked scale. A significant addition is the inclusion of MTSS (shin splints) with its own rating criteria based on treatment duration and responsiveness to conservative care and surgery. Nonunion with loose motion requiring a brace remains rated at 40 percent.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | |
| 10% | |
| 20% | |
| 30% | |
| 40% |
Imaging showing the malunion or nonunion of the bone, Range of motion measurements for both the knee and ankle on the affected side, Documentation of any leg length discrepancy, Records of braces or assistive devices prescribed, Functional assessment describing weight-bearing ability and gait