Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is rated under Diagnostic Code 5269 based on whether the veteran has attempted both non-surgical and surgical treatments and whether those treatments provided relief. Separate evaluations for plantar fasciitis and flat feet on the same foot are not allowed. Outside of the 40% evaluation, a separate rating per foot is not allowed. If the veteran is not a candidate for surgery but it was recommended, they are considered to have tried it for rating purposes (but choosing not to have surgery due to personal preference does not count).
VA Rating Levels
Unilateral or bilateral: has not attempted both non-surgical and surgical treatments.
Unilateral: no relief from both non-surgical and surgical treatments.
Bilateral: no relief from both non-surgical and surgical treatments.
Pain is substantial enough to constitute loss of use of the foot (qualifies for SMC).
Exam Tips & Key Evidence
- →Separate evaluations for plantar fasciitis and flat feet on the same foot are not allowed.
- →If your doctor says you're not a good candidate for surgery but still recommended it, the VA considers that the same as having attempted it.
- →On the other hand, choosing not to have surgery because of personal concerns doesn't count as having attempted it.
- →Outside of the 40% rating level, you can't get a separate rating for each individual foot.
Commonly Related Conditions
38 CFR Reference
38 CFR 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5269