Tibia and fibula, impairment of
Tibia and fibula, impairment of is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5262, from 0% to 40% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 40% rating requires: Nonunion of, with loose motion, requiring brace. Most claims establish the 0% or 10% rating before reaching the top tier.
Rating schedule — DC 5262 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 0%
- Maximum rating
- 40%
- Rating tiers
- 5
- CFR section
- 38 CFR § 4.71a
- Body system
- Musculoskeletal System
- Secondary conditions
- 0
Lowest schedular rating available
TDIU may raise effective compensation to 100%
0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Tibia and fibula, impairment of?
Treatment less than 12 consecutive months, one or both lower extremities
Requiring treatment for no less than 12 consecutive months, and unresponsive to either shoe orthotics or other conservative treatment, one or both lower extremities
Requiring treatment for no less than 12 consecutive months, and unresponsive to surgery and either shoe orthotics or other conservative treatment, one lower extremity
Requiring treatment for no less than 12 consecutive months, and unresponsive to surgery and either shoe orthotics or other conservative treatment, both lower extremities
Nonunion of, with loose motion, requiring brace
“Requiring treatment for no less than 12 consecutive months, and unresponsive to surgery and either shoe orthotics or other conservative treatment, one lower extremity”
Common Questions About Tibia and fibula, impairment of VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Tibia and fibula, impairment of?
The VA rates Tibia and fibula, impairment of under Diagnostic Code 5262 at 0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%. The minimum 0% rating requires: Treatment less than 12 consecutive months, one or both lower extremities. The maximum 40% rating requires: Nonunion of, with loose motion, requiring brace.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Tibia and fibula, impairment of?
The VA rates Tibia and fibula, impairment of under Diagnostic Code (DC) 5262, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
What is the difference between a 0% and a 40% rating for Tibia and fibula, impairment of?
A 0% rating requires: Treatment less than 12 consecutive months, one or both lower extremities. A 40% rating requires: Nonunion of, with loose motion, requiring brace. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.
Can Tibia and fibula, impairment of qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Tibia and fibula, impairment of may qualify for TDIU if the condition — alone or in combination with other service-connected disabilities — prevents substantially gainful employment. A single disability rated at 60% or higher (or multiple disabilities combining to 70%, with one at 40%) can support a TDIU claim under 38 CFR § 4.16.
What evidence do I need to establish service connection for Tibia and fibula, impairment of?
Service connection for Tibia and fibula, impairment of requires three elements: (1) a current diagnosis of the condition, (2) an in-service event, injury, or disease, and (3) a medical nexus linking the current diagnosis to that in-service occurrence. A nexus letter from a treating or independent medical examiner is the most reliable nexus evidence.
What is the C&P exam like for Tibia and fibula, impairment of?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Tibia and fibula, impairment of uses a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) specific to the body system involved. The examiner documents the frequency, severity, and functional impact of your symptoms. Bring all relevant treatment records and be prepared to describe your worst-day symptoms — the examiner rates your condition based on the full clinical picture, not a single visit.
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