The VA changed how shin splints are rated under M21-1 policy in 2026. Learn what changed, how it affects pending claims, and strategies to protect your rating.
In March 2026, the VA updated its M21-1 adjudication manual to change how shin splints (medial tibial stress syndrome) are rated for disability compensation. The update modifies the diagnostic criteria and rating methodology, which veterans and advocates warn will generally result in lower ratings for shin splint claims going forward. This has sparked concern among veterans with pending claims and those considering filing. The critical strategic question is timing. Veterans who have not yet filed a shin splint claim should consider filing before the new rating criteria are fully implemented in regional offices. For claims already in the system, the date of claim establishes which rating criteria apply — the VA must use the criteria most favorable to the veteran when a regulatory change occurs during the pendency of a claim. Veterans with existing shin splint ratings should also understand that the VA cannot reduce a rating without following specific procedural protections under 38 CFR § 3.105(e), including notice and a 60-day response period. Those at 5+ years have additional protections under 38 CFR § 3.344.