VASRD 5035 · Musculoskeletal

Fracture of Tibia or Fibula VA Disability Rating

Break in the lower leg bones, possibly affecting ankle or knee function.

VA Rating Tiers

RatingCriteria
40%Leg bone didn’t heal properly and you need a brace or cane.
30%Healed badly and causes ankle or knee problems.
10%Healed leg fracture with occasional discomfort.

How the VA Evaluates Fracture of Tibia or Fibula

X-ray or bone scan confirming healing outcome, with documentation of range of motion or use of assistive device.

Approval rate

Moderate – if function loss is documented.

Annual service-connected

3,400 veterans

Average rating

20%

Best Evidence to Gather

  • •Imaging showing fracture healing
  • •VA exam for range of motion
  • •Orthopedic notes on mobility or instability

Strategy Tips

  • •Show instability, swelling, or movement loss
  • •Include brace or physical therapy records

C&P Exam Pitfalls

  • •No proof of instability
  • •Overlooking gait abnormalities

Common Filing Mistakes

  • •Failing to explain how symptoms affect function
  • •Missing device or rehab documentation

Onset Patterns

  • •Typically caused by trauma or fall
  • •Often leads to long-term stiffness or pain

Secondary Conditions

Conditions commonly linked to Fracture of Tibia or Fibula. Service-connecting a secondary condition can increase your combined rating.

  • Ankle Arthritis

    Post-fracture misalignment stresses joints

Common questions about Fracture of Tibia or Fibula

Is Fracture of Tibia or Fibula a VA-rated disability?
Yes. The VA rates Fracture of Tibia or Fibula under VASRD diagnostic code 5035 (Musculoskeletal). Break in the lower leg bones, possibly affecting ankle or knee function.
What VA disability rating can I get for Fracture of Tibia or Fibula?
Possible VA ratings for Fracture of Tibia or Fibula are 40%, 30%, 10%. Examples: 40% — Leg bone didn’t heal properly and you need a brace or cane.; 30% — Healed badly and causes ankle or knee problems.; 10% — Healed leg fracture with occasional discomfort..
What's the typical VA rating awarded for Fracture of Tibia or Fibula?
The average awarded rating for Fracture of Tibia or Fibula is 20%. Roughly 3,400 veterans are service-connected for Fracture of Tibia or Fibula each year. Typical approval likelihood: Moderate – if function loss is documented..
What evidence helps prove Fracture of Tibia or Fibula for VA disability?
Strong evidence for a Fracture of Tibia or Fibula claim includes: Imaging showing fracture healing; VA exam for range of motion; Orthopedic notes on mobility or instability.
What mistakes should veterans avoid when claiming Fracture of Tibia or Fibula?
Common pitfalls when filing for Fracture of Tibia or Fibula: Failing to explain how symptoms affect function; Missing device or rehab documentation.
What conditions are commonly secondary to Fracture of Tibia or Fibula?
Conditions often service-connected as secondary to Fracture of Tibia or Fibula include: Ankle Arthritis. Filing for secondary conditions can increase a veteran's combined VA rating.

Estimate your combined rating

See how Fracture of Tibia or Fibula combines with your other service-connected conditions using the official VA combined-ratings formula.

Open the calculator