Foot pain is one of the most common complaints among veterans. Years of marching, running in boots, standing watch, and carrying heavy gear take a toll. One of the most frequent diagnoses for this pain is plantar fasciitis.
If you’re suffering from chronic foot pain, you may be eligible for VA disability benefits. This guide explains how to get a VA rating for plantar fasciitis and what you need to know to build a successful claim.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel bone to your toes. Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of this tissue, which causes a distinct, stabbing pain near the heel.
For veterans, this condition is often caused by:
- Repetitive impact from running and marching.
- Prolonged standing on hard surfaces.
- The stress of carrying heavy equipment (rucks, body armor).
- Aggravation from improper footwear (military boots).
How the VA Rates Plantar Fasciitis (Rating Schedule)
The VA rates plantar fasciitis under 38 CFR § 4.71a, diagnostic code 5269. The ratings are based on whether one or both feet are affected and the severity of the symptoms.
- 50% Rating: This is a new rating added in February 2021 for when you have “no relief from nonsurgical and surgical treatment” in both feet. This is a very high standard, proving that all treatment options have failed.
- 30% Rating: This is for when plantar fasciitis is present in both feet and is not responsive to treatment. This is the most common high rating for the condition.
- 20% Rating: This is for when plantar fasciitis is present in one foot and is not responsive to treatment.
- 10% Rating: This is the most common rating. It’s given for plantar fasciitis in one or both feet that is “otherwise” (meaning it may respond to treatment, or is considered mild).
Bilateral Factor: If you have plantar fasciitis in both feet and it’s rated at 10% (and you have another disability on a different limb), the VA’s “bilateral factor” applies, which can increase your overall combined VA rating.
How to Prove Service Connection for Plantar Fasciitis
To win your claim, you need to prove two things:
- A current diagnosis of plantar fasciitis.
- A “nexus” (link) between your condition and your military service.
There are three main ways to establish this link:
1. Direct Service Connection
This is the most straightforward way. You must show that your plantar fasciitis started during your service.
- Best Evidence: Service Medical Records (SMRs) showing complaints of foot pain, visits to sick call, or a diagnosis.
- Supporting Evidence: Buddy letters from fellow service members who remember you complaining about foot pain. A strong nexus letter from a doctor is also extremely helpful.
2. Secondary Service Connection
This is very common. You can claim plantar fasciitis as a secondary condition if it was caused by another service-connected disability.
- Common Example: You have a service-connected knee, hip, or back condition. This injury causes you to walk with an “altered gait” (a limp). Over time, this unnatural way of walking puts extra stress on your feet, causing plantar fasciitis.
- How to Prove It: You need a strong nexus letter from a medical expert explaining the link between your primary service-connected condition and your plantar fasciitis.
3. Service Connection by Aggravation
If you had foot problems before you joined, you can still get a rating if your military service made the condition permanently worse than it would have naturally become.
What to Expect at Your C&P Exam for Foot Conditions
Once you file, the VA will likely schedule you for a Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam. This is the most important appointment in your claim.
- Be Honest: Don’t exaggerate, but also do not downplay your pain. This is not the time to be “tough.”
- Explain Your Symptoms: Tell the examiner exactly when it hurts (e.g., “stabbing pain when I first get out of bed,” “aching and throbbing after 10 minutes of standing”).
- Discuss Functional Loss: Explain how the pain affects your life. Can you no longer run? Does it hurt to shop for groceries? Do you have to take breaks when mowing the lawn?
If you’re suffering from foot pain, don’t ignore it. You earned these benefits. We can help you understand your options and file a successful claim.