Flat feet medically known as pes planus are one of the most common service-connected conditions among U.S. veterans. Years of marching, running, prolonged standing, and carrying heavy gear can permanently change foot structure, often leading to chronic pain and mobility limitations.
If you’ve filed a VA disability claim for flat feet, the Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam is a pivotal moment. This exam determines not only whether your condition is service-connected, but also how severe it is and that directly impacts your disability rating and monthly compensation.
VA disability expert Brian Reese emphasizes:
“For flat feet claims, the C&P exam is where most veterans either win or lose their rating. Preparation matters more than people realize.”
Understanding Flat Feet (Pes Planus) in Veterans
Flat feet occur when the arches collapse, causing the entire sole of the foot to contact the ground. While some individuals are born with flat feet, many veterans develop or aggravate the condition due to military service.
Common service-related contributors include:
- Prolonged standing on hard surfaces
- Ruck marching with heavy loads
- Running in boots with minimal arch support
- Repetitive impact injuries
“Military service is essentially a perfect storm for pes planus,” notes a podiatry consultant who routinely evaluates veterans.
“Boots, load-bearing, and mileage all work against foot structure over time.”Also Read
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Why the VA C&P Exam for Flat Feet Is So Important?
The Department of Veterans Affairs uses the C&P exam to answer three essential questions:
- Do you currently have flat feet (one foot or both)?
- Were your flat feet caused or aggravated by service (or by another service-connected condition)?
- How severe is the condition in terms of functional loss?
“The VA isn’t just looking for a diagnosis,” explains a VA-accredited claims examiner.
“They’re looking for measurable impact on a veteran’s ability to function.”
The examiner’s DBQ responses often carry decisive weight in the final rating decision.
What to Expect at a VA C&P Exam for Flat Feet?
1. Review of Medical History
The examiner will review:
- VA treatment records
- Private medical records
- Prior diagnoses and treatment outcomes
“If it’s not in the medical record, the VA treats it like it never happened,” warns a veteran service officer.
2. History and Onset Discussion
You’ll be asked about:
- When symptoms began
- Whether service activities worsened the condition
- The physical demands of your MOS or duty assignments
“Marching, standing watch, and load-bearing duties are all strong aggravating factors,” notes Brian Reese.
3. Description of Symptoms
Expect questions about:
- Pain in arches, heels, or soles
- Swelling and stiffness
- Fatigue after use
- Symptoms worsening with activity
“Frequency, severity, and duration are the three words veterans need to remember,” says a disability coach.
“Those are what examiners document.”
4. Impact on Work, Life, and Social Functioning
Functional loss is a cornerstone of VA ratings.
The examiner may ask how flat feet affect:
- Your job duties
- Standing or walking tolerance
- Daily chores and errands
- Recreation and social life
“Pain alone doesn’t drive ratings limitations do,” explains a VA rater familiar with musculoskeletal claims.
5. Physical Examination of the Feet
The examiner will look for:
- Arch collapse
- Inward bowing of the Achilles tendon
- Pain on manipulation
- Swelling, calluses, or deformity
- Abnormal gait
“Gait changes are especially important,” notes an orthopedic specialist.
“They often explain secondary knee, hip, or back problems.”
6. Imaging Tests (If Ordered)
X-rays may be used to:
- Confirm pes planus
- Identify deformities
- Rule out other foot conditions
“Imaging supports the diagnosis, but it doesn’t replace symptom severity,” explains a VA examiner.
7. Completion of the Foot Conditions DBQ
The DBQ documents:
- Unilateral vs bilateral involvement
- Severity of symptoms
- Effectiveness of orthotics
- Functional loss
“The DBQ is essentially the scorecard,” Brian Reese explains.
“What’s checked there often determines the rating.”
Examples of Work, Life, and Functional Impacts
Work Impacts
- Inability to stand for long shifts
- Reduced endurance in physical jobs
- Increased sick leave
“Flat feet often force veterans into less physically demanding roles,” notes a vocational expert.
Life Impacts
- Pain during errands or chores
- Avoidance of exercise
- Reduced participation in family activities
Functional Impacts
- Altered gait
- Secondary joint pain
- Chronic inflammation
“Flat feet rarely exist in isolation,” says a rehabilitation specialist.
“They often start a chain reaction throughout the body.”
VA Rating Criteria for Flat Feet (Pes Planus)
| Severity | VA Rating |
|---|---|
| Mild, relieved by supports | 0% |
| Moderate pain on use | 10% |
| Severe unilateral | 20% |
| Severe bilateral | 30% |
| Pronounced bilateral, no relief | 50% |
“Bilateral involvement and lack of relief from orthotics are major rating drivers,” explains a VA claims analyst.
Tips to Prepare for Your VA C&P Exam for Flat Feet
1. Gather Medical Evidence
- Treatment records
- Orthotic prescriptions
- Surgical history
“Evidence beats memory every time,” says a veteran advocate.
2. Keep a Symptom Diary
Track:
- Pain levels
- Flare-ups
- Triggers
- Relief attempts
3. Photograph Flare-Ups
Photos of:
- Arch collapse
- Swelling
- Calluses
“Visual evidence is incredibly persuasive,” notes Brian Reese.
“A picture can communicate severity instantly.”
4. Document Functional Loss
List:
- Tasks you struggle with
- Work limitations
- Secondary pain areas
5. Review the Foot Conditions DBQ
Know what the examiner must document so you can provide complete answers.
“Preparation isn’t about gaming the system it’s about clarity,” says a VA disability educator.
Common Mistakes Veterans Make
- Minimizing symptoms
- Focusing only on pain
- Forgetting work impacts
- Assuming the examiner understands military life
“The VA doesn’t assume veterans have to explain,” warns a claims specialist.
Final Thought
The VA C&P exam for flat feet is your opportunity to clearly show how pes planus affects your daily life not just your feet. With preparation, documentation, and honest communication, veterans can ensure their condition is evaluated accurately.
“Flat feet may sound minor,” Brian Reese concludes,
“but for many veterans, they change everything about how they live and work.”
FAQs
Can flat feet be service-connected if I had them before service?
Yes, if service aggravated them beyond normal progression.
Does bilateral flat feet matter?
Yes, bilateral conditions are rated higher.
Can flat feet cause secondary conditions?
Yes, knees, hips, and back are common.
Do orthotics reduce ratings?
Relief matters, but lack of relief supports higher ratings.
