Plantar fasciitis — heel pain caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia — is extremely common among veterans with a history of extensive marching, running, and load-bearing. It's ratable but frequently under-rated or denied because veterans don't document it properly. Here's exactly how to get the rating you deserve.
The VA rates plantar fasciitis primarily under Diagnostic Code 5284 (other foot injuries) or as a secondary condition to flat feet (DC 5276). Ratings are 10–30% for each foot depending on severity. Secondary to flat feet is a very strong and easily established connection. Use our combined rating calculator to see your total.
How the VA Rates Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is rated under DC 5284 (other foot injuries) based on severity:
| Severity | Rating | Monthly Pay (Alone, 2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Moderate foot injury with residuals | 10% | $175.51 |
| Moderately severe — significant limitation of function | 20% | $346.95 |
| Severe — marked limitation, inability to use foot for normal activities | 30% | $524.31 |
Plantar Fasciitis Secondary to Flat Feet
Flat feet (pes planus) alter the biomechanics of the foot and directly cause or worsen plantar fasciitis. If you have service-connected flat feet, plantar fasciitis is one of the easiest secondary claims to establish. Your doctor simply needs to note in your records that the flat feet contribute to or cause the plantar fasciitis — which is medically well-supported and easy for most podiatrists to document.
See our flat feet guide for the primary claim, then file plantar fasciitis as secondary to that condition.
Service Connection Without Flat Feet
If you don't have flat feet, you can still service connect plantar fasciitis directly by showing:
- In-service medical records documenting heel pain or plantar fasciitis treatment
- Evidence of activities during service that commonly cause plantar fasciitis (extensive marching, running, prolonged standing on hard surfaces)
- A nexus letter from your treating podiatrist or physician
See our nexus letter guide for how to get proper documentation.
Documenting for Maximum Rating
- Describe the pain specifically — morning pain getting out of bed, pain after prolonged standing, pain that worsens throughout the day
- Document all treatment attempted — orthotics, physical therapy, cortisone injections, night splints
- Describe how it limits daily activities — standing, walking, exercise
- Bilateral plantar fasciitis (both feet) gets rated on each foot separately
Secondary Conditions from Plantar Fasciitis
- Knee conditions — Altered gait from foot pain stresses knees. See our knee guide.
- Back conditions — Compensatory movement patterns cause lumbar strain. See our back pain guide.