Is Plantar Fasciitis a VA Disability?

Posted by Berry Law on August 5, 2024 in Veterans Disability

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that causes pain and discomfort in the heel and arch. For many Veterans, this condition can be debilitating and impact their daily lives. Fortunately, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) recognizes plantar fasciitis as a potential service-connected disability, allowing eligible Veterans to receive benefits and support.

Understanding Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel bone to the toes. The plantar fascia acts as a shock absorber and supports the arch of the foot. When this tissue becomes strained or inflamed, it can cause significant pain and discomfort.

Symptoms of plantar fasciitis may include:

• Pain in the heel or arch of the foot, especially upon waking or after periods of rest.
• Stiffness in the foot and ankle.
• Difficulty walking or standing for long periods.
• Swelling or tenderness in the affected area.

Risk factors for developing plantar fasciitis include:

• Overuse or repetitive strain on the feet.
• Obesity or sudden weight gain.
• Tight calf muscles or Achilles tendons.
• High arches or flat feet.
• Wearing shoes with inadequate support.
• Occupations that keep you on your feet.
• Age.

Plantar Fasciitis and Military Service

Plantar fasciitis can be directly related to Veterans’ military service. The physical demands of military life, such as long marches, running, and carrying heavy gear, can put significant strain on the feet and lead to the development of plantar fasciitis.

Factors such as individual foot structure, weight, and overall health can also play a role in the development of plantar fasciitis. Certain military occupations also may increase the risk of developing plantar fasciitis. For example, jobs requiring prolonged standing or walking on hard surfaces, such as mechanics or cooks, can stress the feet.

While some branches may have a higher incidence of plantar fasciitis, the condition can affect service members in any military branch.

• Army: Army personnel, particularly infantry soldiers, may be more susceptible to developing plantar fasciitis due to the extensive marching, running, and carrying heavy loads during training and deployments. The uneven terrain and long periods spent on their feet can significantly strain the plantar fascia.
• Marine Corps: Like the Army, Marines often engage in physically demanding training and missions that involve marching, running, and carrying heavy equipment. The high-impact nature of these activities can increase the risk of developing plantar fasciitis.
• Air Force: While Air Force personnel may have a lower overall risk compared to the Army and Marine Corps, certain jobs within the Air Force may increase the likelihood of developing plantar fasciitis. For example, Air Force mechanics and maintenance crews often spend long hours standing on hard surfaces, which can stress the feet.
• Navy: Navy personnel serving on ships may be at risk for plantar fasciitis due to the constant motion of the vessel and the need to maintain balance on uneven surfaces. Additionally, jobs that require prolonged standing, such as those in the galley or on the flight deck, can contribute to the development of the condition.
• Coast Guard: Coast Guard members may face similar risks as Navy personnel, particularly those serving on ships or spending long hours on their feet during search and rescue operations.

Veterans who believe their plantar fasciitis is related to their military service should gather evidence and work with their healthcare providers to establish a service connection and receive the appropriate VA disability benefits.

Establishing Service Connection

To receive VA disability benefits for plantar fasciitis, Veterans must establish a service connection. This means providing evidence that their military service caused or aggravated the condition. There are several ways to establish a service connection for plantar fasciitis:

Direct Service Connection: Veterans can provide evidence that their plantar fasciitis began during their military service or was caused by a specific event or injury during service.

Presumptive Service Connection: In some cases, the VA may presume that certain conditions, including plantar fasciitis, are related to military service if they develop within a specified time frame after discharge.

Secondary Service Connection: Veterans can also establish a service connection if their plantar fasciitis is caused or aggravated by another service-connected condition, such as a knee or back injury.

Gathering Evidence for VA Disability Benefits Claim

To support a claim for VA disability benefits for plantar fasciitis, Veterans should gather relevant evidence, such as:

• Service medical records documenting foot pain or injuries during military service.
• Post-service medical records showing a diagnosis of plantar fasciitis and ongoing treatment.
• Lay statements from the Veteran, family members, or fellow service members describing the onset and impact of the condition.
• Medical opinions or a nexus letter from healthcare providers linking the plantar fasciitis to military service.

The more evidence a Veteran can provide, the stronger their case for service connection and disability benefits.

VA Disability Ratings for Plantar Fasciitis

If the VA determines that a Veteran’s plantar fasciitis is service-connected, they will assign a disability rating based on the severity of the condition. Disability ratings are assigned in 10% increments, ranging from 0% to 100%. The VA rates plantar fasciitis under the Schedule of Ratings for the Musculoskeletal System, 38 CFR § 4.71a, specifically under Diagnostic Code 5269. The rating criteria consider factors such as relief from both non-surgical and surgical treatment.

A Veteran with service-connected plantar fasciitis may receive a disability rating of:

• 30% if “[n]o relief from both non-surgical and surgical treatment, bilateral”
• 20% if “[n]o relief from both non-surgical and surgical treatment, unilateral”
• 10% if “[o]therwise, unilateral or bilateral”
  • “Note (1): With actual loss of use of the foot, rate 40 percent”
  • “Note (2): If a Veteran has been recommended for surgical intervention, but is not a surgical candidate, evaluate under the 20 percent or 30 percent criteria, whichever is applicable”

Receiving VA Disability Benefits

Once a Veteran establishes a service connection and receives a disability rating for their plantar fasciitis, they may be eligible for various VA benefits, including:

• Monthly compensation payments based on the disability rating
• Priority access to VA healthcare services
• Vocational rehabilitation and employment services
• Adaptive equipment and assistive devices

Veterans can apply for disability benefits online, by mail, or in person at a VA regional office. The application process typically involves submitting VA Form 21-526EZ, Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits, with supporting evidence.

How a VA Disability Benefits Lawyer Can Help

While Veterans can file claims independently, working with an experienced VA disability benefits lawyer can significantly improve their chances of success and ensure they receive the maximum benefits they deserve. A skilled attorney can:

• Help gather and organize evidence: A VA disability benefits lawyer can assist in collecting and presenting relevant medical records, service records, and lay statements to support the Veteran’s claim.
• Ensure accurate and complete paperwork: Attorneys familiar with the VA claims process can help Veterans navigate the complex paperwork and ensure all necessary documentation is submitted correctly and on time.
• Provide representation during appeals: If a Veteran’s initial claim is denied or they receive a lower disability rating than expected, a VA disability benefits lawyer can represent them during the appeals process, presenting arguments and evidence to support their case. Securing a higher disability rating can help increase Veterans disability benefits.

VA disability benefits lawyers stay informed about the latest changes to VA regulations and case law, ensuring that Veterans’ claims are handled under the most up-to-date information.

Working with a VA disability benefits lawyer provides Veterans with an advocate who understands their unique situation and can offer tailored advice and support throughout the claims process.

Contact Berry Law to Secure VA Disability Benefits for Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis can be a debilitating condition for many Veterans, impacting their daily lives and well-being. Veterans struggling with plantar fasciitis need to understand their eligibility for VA disability benefits to gather the necessary evidence to support their claim. Working with experienced legal professionals can help ensure they receive the benefits and care they deserve.

With a team of experienced attorneys and legal staff, many of whom are Veterans, Berry Law understands the unique challenges Veterans face navigating the VA system. The firm is dedicated to helping them achieve successful outcomes. Call us at 888-883-2483 or fill out our online contact form. We represent Veterans in all 50 states and our legal team is available 24/7.