Diagnostic code
Diagnostic Code 5262: Tibia/Fibula Impairment and Shin Splints (MTSS) Rating Criteria
- CFR section
- 38 CFR § 4.71a
- Rating range
- 0% to 40%
- Rating levels
- 5
- Body system
- Musculoskeletal system
The VA rates Tibia/Fibula Impairment and Shin Splints (MTSS) under diagnostic code 5262 in 38 CFR § 4.71a. The table below is the full set of rating criteria, from the schedule itself, with the evidence factors raters look for at each level.
DC 5262 rating criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | MTSS or shin splints treated for less than 12 consecutive months, one or both lower extremities What raters look fortreatment under 12 consecutive months; one or both lower extremities |
| 10% | MTSS requiring at least 12 consecutive months of treatment and unresponsive to either shoe orthotics or other conservative treatment, one or both lower extremities What raters look for12 consecutive months; unresponsive to orthotics or conservative treatment; one or both lower extremities |
| 20% | MTSS requiring at least 12 consecutive months of treatment and unresponsive to surgery and either shoe orthotics or other conservative treatment, one lower extremity What raters look for12 consecutive months; unresponsive to surgery; unresponsive to orthotics or conservative treatment; one lower extremity |
| 30% | MTSS requiring at least 12 consecutive months of treatment and unresponsive to surgery and either shoe orthotics or other conservative treatment, both lower extremities What raters look for12 consecutive months; unresponsive to surgery; unresponsive to orthotics or conservative treatment; both lower extremities |
| 40% | Nonunion with loose motion requiring brace What raters look fornonunion; loose motion; brace required |
Condition guide
The rating criteria are only part of the picture for Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome). The Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome) condition page covers service connection, common evidence problems, secondary conditions, and Board outcome patterns in depth.
Frequently asked questions
What is VA diagnostic code 5262?
Diagnostic code 5262 is the VA rating schedule entry for Tibia/Fibula Impairment and Shin Splints (MTSS), found in 38 CFR § 4.71a. The VA assigns this code when it rates the condition and applies the criteria listed on this page.
What ratings are possible under DC 5262?
DC 5262 provides ratings of 0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%. The percentage depends on which criteria your medical evidence documents, not on the diagnosis alone.
What does the highest rating under DC 5262 require?
The 40% rating for Tibia/Fibula Impairment and Shin Splints requires: Nonunion with loose motion requiring brace.