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Plantar Fasciitis VA Disability Rating
DC 5276/5284 | 38 C.F.R. § 4.71a | M21-1, Part IV.ii.2
OVERVIEW
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common foot conditions among veterans, caused by the repetitive stress of running, rucking, and prolonged standing in military boots. It is typically rated by analogy under Diagnostic Code 5276 (flatfoot) or 5284 (other foot injuries) at 38 C.F.R. § 4.71a. If bilateral, the bilateral factor under 38 C.F.R. § 4.26 applies.
RATING CRITERIA (3 LEVELS)
50% — Pronounced bilateral flat foot
Under DC 5276: Marked pronation, extreme tenderness of plantar surfaces, marked inward displacement and severe spasm of the tendo achillis on manipulation, not improved by orthopedic shoes or appliances.
30% — Severe bilateral / 20% unilateral
Severe flat foot with objective evidence of marked deformity, pain on manipulation, indication of swelling on use, characteristic callosities.
10% — Moderate
Weight-bearing line over or medial to great toe, inward bowing of the achilles, pain on manipulation and use of the feet.
KEY EVIDENCE TO GATHER
-Service treatment records showing foot pain complaints during or after service
-X-ray or MRI showing plantar fascia thickening, heel spurs, or related pathology
-Documentation of orthotics, inserts, or special footwear prescribed
-Military duty records showing high-impact activities (infantry, airborne, running, rucking)
-Buddy statements describing limping, inability to stand or walk for extended periods
SECONDARY CONDITIONS (3 MAPPED)
Knee (Bilateral)STRONG
DC 5260
Altered gait from plantar fasciitis causes compensatory stress on both knees.
Lumbar SpineSTRONG
DC 5237
Altered biomechanics from foot condition causes compensatory lumbar strain.
C&P EXAM TIPS (4)
1.Do NOT wear your orthotics or comfortable shoes to the exam. Wear standard shoes so the examiner sees the unassisted condition.
2.If bilateral, make sure BOTH feet are documented and examined.
3.Describe morning pain, first-step pain, and inability to stand or walk after prolonged periods.
4.Ask the examiner to document tenderness on palpation of the plantar fascia.
DOLLAR IMPACT
Bilateral plantar fasciitis at 30% ($552/mo) plus secondary bilateral knee conditions (10% each with bilateral factor), hip, and lumbar spine can push combined ratings above 60%.
RELATED CONDITION GUIDES
EDUCATIONAL TOOL ONLY. NOT LEGAL OR MEDICAL ADVICE.
NOT AFFILIATED WITH THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.
CLAIM RECON 2026
NOT AFFILIATED WITH THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.
CLAIM RECON 2026