The Veterans Affairs (VA) rating for plantar fasciitis depends on the severity of your condition, but the highest rating you can get is 40%. Disability ratings are assigned based on how much the condition limits your ability to work and perform daily activities. A higher rating is given if the condition causes severe pain, swelling, or difficulty walking.
To receive a VA Disability rating, you will need medical evidence documenting your diagnosis, treatment, and how the condition affects your mobility and daily life. A Veterans Affairs Disability benefits claims lawyer can help you get benefits.
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What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that causes pain in the heel and the bottom of the foot. It happens when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot connecting the heel bone to the toes, becomes inflamed or irritated.
This condition often causes sharp, stabbing pain, especially when taking the first steps in the morning or after long periods of rest. Plantar fasciitis can result from overuse, prolonged standing, high-impact activities, or wearing unsupportive footwear.
Service-Related Plantar Fasciitis for Veterans
Service-related plantar fasciitis occurs when a veteran develops this foot condition as a direct result of their military service. Activities such as long marches, running with heavy gear, standing for extended periods, or participating in physically demanding training can put repeated stress on the feet, leading to inflammation of the plantar fascia.
Veterans who experience chronic heel pain that began or worsened during service may qualify for Veterans Disability benefits. Recognizing plantar fasciitis as service-related ensures veterans receive the benefits and care they need for this painful and limiting condition.
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How the VA Rates Plantar Fasciitis
The VA evaluates plantar fasciitis based on how much it limits your ability to stand, walk, or perform daily activities. Ratings typically range up to 40%, depending on the severity of your symptoms.
The VA includes plantar fasciitis in its musculoskeletal disability rating schedule under conditions affecting the feet. To receive VA Disability compensation for plantar fasciitis, you must first obtain a diagnosis from a qualified medical professional, typically a podiatrist.
Factors that influence the rating include:
- Frequency and intensity of pain
- Limitations in walking or standing
- Need for assistive devices, such as orthotics or braces
- Impact on work and daily life
A higher plantar fasciitis VA rating is usually given for more severe, chronic symptoms that significantly affect mobility and quality of life. Proper documentation of your medical treatment, symptoms, and functional limitations helps support your claim.
Understanding Your VA Rating for Plantar Fasciitis
Depending on your unique situation, you may receive a disability rating of 10%, 20%, 30%, or 40% (being the maximum). Working with an experienced Veterans Affairs Disability benefits claims attorney will increase your chances of a higher rating.
If you were diagnosed with service-related plantar fasciitis, you could receive one of the following ratings:
- 10% rating: This rating applies when plantar fasciitis is present in one or both feet, but symptoms improve with prescribed treatments such as orthotics, medications, or physical therapy.
- 20% rating: Veterans with plantar fasciitis in one foot that has not improved with medical or surgical treatment may qualify for this rating.
- 30% rating: This rating can be assigned if plantar fasciitis affects both feet and continues to cause significant pain or limitations despite trying both surgical and non-surgical treatments.
- 40% rating: Veterans who experience a complete loss of use in a foot may be eligible for this higher disability rating for plantar fasciitis.
Can You Get a Secondary Disability Rating for Plantar Fasciitis?
Yes, it is possible to receive a secondary disability rating for plantar fasciitis if the condition contributes to or worsens another service-connected disability. A secondary rating applies when one condition is caused or aggravated by a primary service-connected condition.
For example, plantar fasciitis can lead to:
- Knee, hip, or back pain due to changes in the way you walk
- Chronic foot deformities or additional musculoskeletal problems
- Reduced mobility that affects other parts of the body
To qualify for a secondary VA rating, you must provide medical evidence showing that your plantar fasciitis either caused or aggravated another disability. A doctor’s statement linking the two conditions is essential.
Receiving a secondary rating can increase your overall VA compensation by recognizing the additional impact your plantar fasciitis has on your health and daily life. A Veterans Disability benefits attorney can help you prove service connection by aggravation for VA claims.
A Veterans Affairs Disability Benefits Claims Lawyer Will Clarify Your VA Rating for Plantar Fasciitis
A VA Disability claims lawyer from our team will help you understand exactly how your plantar fasciitis is rated and what that means for your benefits. We are familiar with the VA’s rating system and can explain the difference between percentages, secondary ratings, and how your symptoms affect your overall compensation.
Since 1992, Marc Whitehead & Associates has been guiding veterans to secure the benefits they have earned. With more than 120 years of combined experience, our team understands the VA system and knows how to effectively advocate on your behalf.