Pes Planus VA Rating: How the VA Evaluates Flat Feet Disability Claims
Many veterans experience chronic foot pain caused by pes planus, commonly known as flat feet. While some veterans develop the condition during service, others enter the military with flat feet and experience worsening symptoms over time due to the physical demands of military training and duties.
Understanding the pes planus VA rating is important for veterans seeking disability compensation. However, many claims are denied because the condition was documented before military service. In these situations, veterans may still qualify for benefits if their condition was aggravated by service, meaning it became worse due to military duties.
In this guide, we explain how the VA evaluates pes planus, what disability ratings may apply, and why some flat feet claims are denied.
What Is Pes Planus (Flat Feet)?
Pes planus is the medical term for flat feet, a condition in which the arch of the foot collapses or is significantly lower than normal. This can cause the entire sole of the foot to touch the ground when standing. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine’s MedlinePlus medical encyclopedia, flat feet (pes planus) can contribute to pain in the feet, ankles, knees, and lower back.
While some people with flat feet experience little discomfort, others may develop symptoms such as:
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foot pain or tenderness
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swelling along the inside of the ankle
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difficulty standing or walking for long periods
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pain that extends into the ankles, knees, or lower back
For veterans, the physical demands of military service, including long marches, running, and carrying heavy equipment, can make flat feet symptoms significantly worse over time.
Can Veterans Receive VA Disability for Flat Feet?
Yes. Veterans may qualify for VA disability compensation for pes planus if the condition is connected to their military service.
This connection may occur in two main ways:
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The condition developed during military service, or
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A pre-existing condition became worse because of military service
Many veterans assume they cannot qualify for benefits if they had flat feet before joining the military. However, the VA may still award disability benefits if the condition was aggravated by service-related activities.
If you are unsure whether your condition qualifies, you may want to get help with your VA disability claim.
VA Rating for Pes Planus (Flat Feet)
The pes planus VA rating is determined by the severity of symptoms and how much the condition affects a veteran’s ability to work and perform daily activities. Ratings are intended to reflect how much the condition impacts a veteran’s ability to work and perform daily activities.
0% VA Rating for Pes Planus
A 0% rating may be assigned when flat feet are diagnosed but symptoms are considered mild. Veterans with a 0% rating may still have their condition recognized as service-connected, even if compensation is not awarded.
10% VA Rating for Pes Planus
A 10% rating may apply when symptoms cause moderate pain or discomfort, particularly when standing or walking. Veterans may experience pain along the arch of the foot or noticeable flattening of the arch.
30% VA Rating for Pes Planus
A 30% rating may be assigned for severe symptoms, which may include:
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significant flattening of the arch
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swelling with prolonged use
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pain during walking or standing
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visible deformity of the foot
In some cases, this rating may apply when both feet are affected, known as bilateral pes planus.
50% VA Rating for Pes Planus
A 50% rating represents the most severe level of flat feet disability. Veterans at this level may experience:
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extreme tenderness of the feet
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pronounced deformity
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severe functional limitations when walking or standing
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symptoms that are not relieved by orthotics or corrective footwear
Why VA Claims for Flat Feet Are Often Denied
Many veterans are surprised when their flat feet VA disability claim is denied, especially if they experience significant pain or mobility issues.
One common reason involves pre-existing conditions. Some service members enter the military with documented flat feet and may have received a medical waiver during enlistment.
When a claim is later filed, the VA may deny it because the condition existed prior to service. However, this does not always mean a veteran is ineligible for benefits.
If you want to understand other common reasons disability claims are rejected, read why VA disability claims get denied.
When Pes Planus May Qualify as an Aggravated VA Claim
Even if a veteran had flat feet before joining the military, the condition may still qualify for VA disability benefits if it worsened during service.
This is known as an aggravated claim.
Military duties can place significant stress on the feet. Activities such as running, standing for long periods, carrying heavy gear, and participating in field training can all contribute to worsening symptoms.
If medical evidence shows that pes planus became worse during military service, the VA may recognize the condition as service-connected through aggravation.
Evidence That Can Strengthen a Pes Planus VA Claim
Several types of evidence can help support a pes planus disability claim, including:
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service treatment records documenting foot pain
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medical records showing worsening symptoms
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documentation of physical demands during military service
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medical opinions linking military activities to worsening flat feet symptoms
Strong documentation can help demonstrate that the condition became worse during service, which may be necessary when filing an aggravated claim.
For more information on how medical evidence can support a disability case, learn about secondary conditions related to PTSD.
How Veteran Alliance Helps Veterans With Pes Planus Claims
Many veterans are denied disability benefits because their claim was filed incorrectly or important evidence was not included.
Veterans who were denied due to a pre-existing condition may still have options, especially if their symptoms became worse during military service.
Understanding the difference between a standard claim and an aggravated claim can make a significant difference when pursuing VA disability benefits.
If you believe your flat feet condition worsened during military service, get started with a claim review now.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pes Planus VA Ratings
Can you get VA disability for flat feet?
Yes. Veterans may qualify for VA disability benefits for pes planus if the condition developed during service or became worse because of military duties.
What is the pes planus VA rating?
The VA rating for pes planus can range from 0% to 50%, depending on the severity of symptoms and how much the condition impacts a veteran’s daily functioning.
What if I had flat feet before joining the military?
Even if flat feet existed before service, a veteran may still qualify for disability benefits if the condition worsened during military service.
Can pes planus be aggravated by military service?
Yes. The physical demands of military service, including marching, running, and carrying heavy equipment, can aggravate flat feet and make symptoms significantly worse over time.