Finding a VA Rating For Shin Splints

Shin splints, medically known as medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS), are a common condition that affects many veterans. This painful condition occurs when there’s inflammation of the muscles, tendons, and bone tissue around the tibia, or shinbone. Veterans often experience this condition due to the rigorous physical demands of military service.

The main symptom of shin splints is pain along the inner edge of the shinbone. This pain can be sharp or dull and may occur during or after physical activity. For many veterans, the discomfort can persist even after leaving the service, leading them to seek VA disability benefits.

Understanding shin splints is crucial for veterans pursuing a VA disability claim. The condition can significantly impact daily life, making it difficult to walk, run, or even stand for extended periods. Recognizing these symptoms and their impact on quality of life is the first step in seeking appropriate compensation through the VA.

Common Causes of Shin Splints in Veterans

Veterans are particularly susceptible to shin splints due to the nature of military service. The intense physical training, long marches, and constant running on hard surfaces contribute significantly to the development of this condition. These activities put repetitive stress on the lower legs, leading to the inflammation characteristic of shin splints.

Another common cause is sudden changes in exercise intensity or duration. During military service, soldiers often need to quickly ramp up their physical activity, which can overwork the muscles and bones in the lower leg. This rapid increase in stress can lead to the development of shin splints.

Footwear also plays a crucial role. Military boots, while designed for durability and protection, may not always provide the best support for every individual’s foot structure. This can lead to improper distribution of impact forces, increasing the risk of shin splints.

Additionally, factors such as flat feet or high arches, which are sometimes exacerbated by military service, can contribute to the development of shin splints. These structural issues can alter the way force is distributed through the leg during physical activity, potentially leading to increased stress on the shin area.

Diagnosing Shin Splints for VA Claims

When seeking a VA disability rating for shin splints, proper diagnosis is crucial. The VA requires a clear medical diagnosis to establish service connection and determine the appropriate disability rating. Veterans should seek medical attention if they experience persistent pain along their shinbone, especially if it’s related to physical activity.

Diagnosis typically begins with a physical examination. A healthcare provider will assess the area of pain, looking for tenderness along the tibia and evaluating any swelling or inflammation. They may also ask about the veteran’s history of physical activity and when the pain typically occurs.

In some cases, additional tests may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis or rule out other conditions. These can include:

• X-rays to check for stress fractures or other bone abnormalities
• Bone scans to detect areas of increased bone metabolism, which can indicate stress injuries
• MRI scans to provide detailed images of soft tissues and bone

It’s important for veterans to keep detailed records of their medical visits, diagnoses, and any treatments received. These records will be valuable when filing a VA disability claim for shin splints.

Service Connection for Shin Splints

Establishing service connection is a critical step in obtaining VA disability benefits for shin splints. To receive a VA rating, veterans must prove that their shin splints are directly related to their military service.

This process involves demonstrating three key elements:

1. A current diagnosis of shin splints
2. An in-service event, injury, or illness that could have caused or aggravated the condition
3. A medical nexus linking the current diagnosis to the in-service occurrence

Veterans can establish service connection in several ways. Direct service connection is the most straightforward, where the shin splints began during active duty and have persisted since then. This can be supported by service medical records showing treatment for shin pain or related issues.

Secondary service connection is another possibility. This applies when shin splints develop as a result of another service-connected condition, such as a knee or foot injury that alters gait and puts additional stress on the shins.

According to CCK Law, veterans may also claim shin splints as a presumptive condition if they developed within one year of discharge from service. However, this is less common for shin splints compared to other conditions.

To strengthen their claim, veterans should gather all relevant medical records, both from their time in service and after discharge. Buddy statements from fellow service members or family members can also provide valuable evidence to support the claim.

VA Examination Process for Shin Splints

Once a veteran files a claim for shin splints, the VA will typically schedule a Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam. This exam is a crucial part of the VA’s evaluation process and plays a significant role in determining the disability rating.

During the C&P exam, a VA-appointed healthcare provider will conduct a thorough assessment of the veteran’s condition. The examiner will review the veteran’s medical history and claims file, perform a physical examination, and may order additional tests if necessary.

The physical examination often includes:

• Palpation of the shin area to assess tenderness
• Evaluation of range of motion in the ankle and knee
• Assessment of gait and overall mobility
• Testing for muscle strength and stability

Veterans should be prepared to discuss their symptoms in detail, including how often they experience pain, what activities trigger or worsen the pain, and how the condition impacts their daily life and ability to work.

It’s important for veterans to be honest and thorough during the exam. Downplaying symptoms can result in a lower rating, while exaggerating them can harm the credibility of the claim. The goal is to provide an accurate picture of how shin splints affect the veteran’s life.

After the exam, the healthcare provider will submit a report to the VA, which will use this information, along with other evidence in the veteran’s file, to make a decision on the claim and assign a rating if service connection is established.

Understanding VA Rating Criteria for Shin Splints

The VA rates shin splints under 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5262, which covers impairment of the tibia and fibula. As of February 7, 2021, the VA updated its rating criteria specifically for shin splints, providing more clarity on how these conditions are evaluated.

Under the current rating system, shin splints are evaluated based on the following criteria:

• 0% rating: Asymptomatic shin splints or those requiring treatment for less than 12 consecutive months
• 10% rating: Shin splints requiring treatment for at least 12 consecutive months and unresponsive to conservative treatment
• 20% rating: Shin splints requiring treatment for at least 12 consecutive months, unresponsive to surgery and conservative treatment (for one lower extremity)
• 30% rating: Shin splints requiring treatment for at least 12 consecutive months, unresponsive to surgery and conservative treatment (for both lower extremities)

It’s important to note that “conservative treatment” can include rest, ice, compression, elevation, medication, and physical therapy. The VA will consider the duration of symptoms, the effectiveness of treatment, and the impact on daily activities when assigning a rating.

VA Claims Insider points out that while higher ratings are possible, they are less common because they require surgical intervention that has been unsuccessful. Many cases of shin splints are managed with conservative treatments, which may limit the rating to 10% in many cases.

Rating Percentages and Compensation

The VA disability rating assigned for shin splints directly affects the amount of monthly compensation a veteran receives. As of 2023, the basic monthly payment rates for veterans with no dependents are:

• 10% disability rating: $165.92 per month
• 20% disability rating: $327.99 per month
• 30% disability rating: $508.05 per month

It’s important to remember that these rates can change annually and may be higher for veterans with dependents. The VA provides a complete table of compensation rates on their website, which veterans should consult for the most up-to-date information.

While shin splints alone may not result in a high disability rating, they can contribute to a veteran’s overall combined disability rating when considered alongside other service-connected conditions. This combined rating determines the total monthly compensation.

Veterans should also be aware that even a 0% rating, while not providing monetary compensation, establishes service connection. This can be beneficial if the condition worsens in the future, making it easier to seek an increased rating.

Secondary Conditions Related to Shin Splints

Shin splints can sometimes lead to or aggravate other conditions, which may be eligible for secondary service connection. Understanding these potential secondary conditions is crucial for veterans seeking comprehensive compensation for their service-related health issues.

Common secondary conditions that may be associated with shin splints include:

1. Knee problems: Chronic shin splints can alter a veteran’s gait, potentially leading to knee pain or other knee-related issues.
2. Ankle conditions: The altered biomechanics resulting from shin splints may put additional stress on the ankles.
3. Lower back pain: Changes in walking patterns due to shin pain can affect the lower back over time.
4. Plantar fasciitis: The same factors that contribute to shin splints can also lead to this painful foot condition.

To claim a secondary condition, veterans need to provide medical evidence linking the secondary condition to their service-connected shin splints. This often requires a medical opinion from a healthcare provider explaining the connection between the two conditions.

It’s worth noting that obesity, while not a disability in itself, can be considered an “intermediate step” between a service-connected disability like shin splints and a secondary condition. For example, if shin splints lead to reduced activity and weight gain, which then causes or aggravates another condition, this chain of causation may be considered in a VA claim.

Veterans should discuss any additional symptoms or conditions they experience with their healthcare provider and consider including these in their VA claim if appropriate.

Appealing a VA Decision on Shin Splints

If a veteran disagrees with the VA’s decision regarding their shin splints claim, they have the right to appeal. The appeals process can be complex, but understanding the options can help veterans navigate the system more effectively.

As of February 2019, the VA implemented the Appeals Modernization Act (AMA), which provides three lanes for appeals:

1. Higher-Level Review: A senior VA reviewer will take a fresh look at the claim. No new evidence can be submitted in this lane.
2. Supplemental Claim: Veterans can submit new and relevant evidence to support their claim.
3. Appeal to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals: This allows for a direct appeal to the Board, with options for a hearing or submission of additional evidence.

When appealing a shin splints decision, veterans should consider:

• Whether there’s new medical evidence that wasn’t considered in the original decision
• If the VA misapplied the rating criteria for shin splints
• Whether all relevant service records and medical opinions were properly evaluated

It’s often helpful to seek assistance from a Veterans Service Organization (VSO) or an accredited attorney when navigating the appeals process. These professionals can provide valuable guidance and help ensure all necessary evidence is presented effectively.

Remember, persistence can pay off. Many veterans receive higher ratings or service connection through the appeals process, so don’t be discouraged if the initial decision is unfavorable.

Tips for a Successful VA Shin Splints Claim

Securing a favorable VA rating for shin splints requires careful preparation and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help veterans strengthen their claims:

1. Gather comprehensive medical evidence: Collect all relevant medical records, including those from service, private doctors, and VA facilities. Ensure these records clearly document the diagnosis, treatment, and progression of your shin splints.
2. Provide a detailed personal statement: Write a statement explaining how shin splints have impacted your daily life and ability to work. Be specific about the activities you can no longer perform or that cause significant pain.
3. Obtain buddy statements: Statements from fellow service members, family, or friends who have witnessed the impact of your shin splints can provide valuable supporting evidence.
4. Keep a symptom journal: Document the frequency and severity of your shin splint symptoms, including any flare-ups or limitations on activities.
5. Attend all scheduled C&P exams: These exams are crucial for the VA’s evaluation. Be honest about your symptoms and their impact on your life.
6. Consider secondary conditions: If you’ve developed other conditions as a result of your shin splints, make sure to include these in your claim.
7. Seek professional help: Consider working with a VSO or accredited attorney who can guide you through the claims process and help ensure you’ve covered all bases.
8. Be persistent: If your initial claim is denied or you receive a lower rating than expected, don’t hesitate to appeal. Many veterans receive better outcomes through the appeals process.

Remember, the goal is to provide a clear, comprehensive picture of how shin splints affect your life. By following these tips and providing thorough documentation, you can increase your chances of receiving an appropriate VA disability rating for your shin splints.

Frequently Asked Questions About Shin Splints VA Ratings

To help veterans better understand the VA rating process for shin splints, here are answers to some commonly asked questions:

Q: Can I receive a VA disability rating for shin splints if I was diagnosed after leaving the military?

A: Yes, you can still receive a rating if you can establish that your shin splints are connected to your military service. This may require additional medical evidence and a strong nexus opinion linking the condition to your service.

Q: How does the VA determine the severity of shin splints?

A: The VA considers factors such as the duration of symptoms, response to treatment, impact on daily activities, and whether surgery has been required. The C&P exam results also play a crucial role in this determination.

Q: Can I receive separate ratings for shin splints in each leg?

A: Typically, the VA rates bilateral shin splints as a single condition. However, if one leg is significantly more affected than the other, it may be possible to argue for separate ratings.

Q: Will my shin splints rating be permanent?

A: Not necessarily. The VA may schedule future examinations to reassess the condition, especially if it’s expected to improve over time. However, ratings that have been in place for many years may become protected.

Q: Can I work with shin splints and still receive VA disability compensation?

A: Yes, receiving VA disability compensation for shin splints does not prevent you from working. However, if your shin splints significantly impact your ability to work, you may be eligible for additional benefits such as Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU).

Q: How long does it take to receive a decision on a shin splints claim?

A: Processing times can vary, but on average, it takes several months to receive a decision. Complex cases or those requiring additional evidence may take longer.

Remember, each case is unique, and these answers may not apply to every situation. When in doubt, consult with a VSO or VA-accredited attorney for personalized advice.

Resources for Veterans with Shin Splints

For veterans dealing with shin splints and navigating the VA claims process, numerous resources are available for support and information:

1. VA.gov: The official website of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs provides comprehensive information on benefits, claims processes, and health services. Visit https://www.va.gov/ for official guidance.
2. Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs): Organizations like the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), and American Legion offer free assistance with VA claims. Find a VSO representative at https://www.va.gov/vso/.
3. Community Care Providers: Veterans may be eligible for care from community providers if VA facilities are not easily accessible. Learn more at https://www.va.gov/COMMUNITYCARE/.
4. VA Medical Centers: These facilities offer specialized care for veterans. Locate your nearest VA medical center at https://www.va.gov/find-locations/.
5. eBenefits: This joint VA/Department of Defense web portal allows veterans to access and manage their benefits online. Visit https://www.ebenefits.va.gov/.
6. Veterans Crisis Line: For veterans experiencing crisis, free confidential support is available 24/7 at 1-800-273-8255 (Press 1) or via online chat at https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/.
7. National Resource Directory: This directory connects veterans to services and resources to support recovery, rehabilitation, and community reintegration. Explore at https://nrd.gov/.

Remember, you’re not alone in this process. These resources are designed to support veterans in managing their health conditions and navigating the VA system. Don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance when needed. Start today on your benefits journey by taking our quiz at Benefits.com to see whether you qualify.