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Pes Planus and Veterans Disability

pes planus va rating

Many veterans face the challenges of foot conditions related to their service, impacting their daily lives and well-being. Among these conditions, pes planus, commonly known as flat feet, is a prevalent issue. Leah will explore the implications of pes planus and veterans disability, covering aspects such as its types, service connection, aggravation, and secondary conditions.

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Types of Pes Planus: Congenital vs. Acquired

Pes planus can manifest in two primary forms: congenital and acquired. A congenital flat foot is present at birth and an acquired flat foot is acquired over time. Veterans may enter service with asymptomatic flat feet, or they might develop the condition during or after their time in the military. The distinction between congenital and acquired flat feet is crucial in determining how the condition is service-connected.

Congenital Flat Feet: Documentation from Entrance Physicals

Veterans with congenital flat feet, present from birth, should have this information documented in their entrance physicals. A person may also have an acquired flat foot that was acquired prior to service entrance. The Report of Medical History (VA Form 2807) and the Report of Medical Examination (VA Form 2808) play a vital role in recording such details. The latter includes a foot examination section where the presence of flat feet is indicated.

Acquired Flat Feet: Causes and Service Connection

Acquired flat feet can result from various factors, including weight gain, chronic ankle rolling, foot surgeries, or other service-connected disabilities. Understanding how flat feet are service-connected is crucial for veterans seeking disability benefits.

Service Connection and Rating Criteria

Service connection for flat feet can occur on a primary or secondary basis. Primary service connection is established if the condition develops or worsens during service. On a secondary basis, flat feet can be connected to another service-connected disability. The challenge lies in showing the connection or relationship and demonstrating the impact on the veteran’s overall health.

  1. Primary Service Connection:
    • In-Service Development or Aggravation: Veterans must show that flat feet either developed or worsened during their military service. Common factors include weight gain or conditions that affect the arch, such as posterior tibial tendonitis.
    • Sustained Aggravation: It’s crucial to demonstrate a sustained aggravation, not just a temporary worsening. This could involve continuous foot pain post-service, indicating a lasting impact on the veteran’s health.
  2. Secondary Service Connection:
    • Connected to Another Service-Connected Disability: Flat feet can be secondary to conditions like weight gain due to service-connected disabilities or other foot injuries sustained during active duty.

Aggravating Factors and Secondary Conditions

Several factors can aggravate or lead to the development of flat feet in veterans. Understanding these factors is essential for building a solid case for disability benefits.

  1. Weight Gain: A Major Contributor
    • Posterior Tibial Tendonitis: Weight gain can contribute to the deterioration of the posterior tibial tendon, leading to acquired flat feet. This connection can be crucial in establishing service connection.
  2. Chronic Ankle Rolling and Foot Surgeries:
    • Loss of Arch Support: Veterans who have experienced chronic ankle rolling or undergone foot surgeries may lose essential arch support, resulting in the development of acquired flat feet.
  3. Service-Connected Disabilities and Aggravation:
    • Baseline vs. Aggravation: Veterans with pre-existing flat feet can still be eligible for disability benefits if they can demonstrate an aggravation of the baseline beyond its natural progression. Documentation of foot pain and dysfunction related to flat feet during service can be critical in such cases.

Diagnosis and Documentation

Proper diagnosis and documentation play a pivotal role in establishing service connection and obtaining disability benefits for pes planus.

  1. Medical Professionals for Diagnosis:
    • Family Practitioners, Podiatrists, and More: Flat feet can be diagnosed by various medical professionals, including family practitioners, podiatrists, and orthopedic specialists.
  2. Diagnostic Methods:
    • Clinical Examination and Weighted X-rays: A thorough clinical examination and weighted X-rays can help diagnose and measure the extent of flat feet. These diagnostic tools provide a comprehensive view of the foot’s structure and angles.
  3. VA Care and Custom Orthotics:
    • Access to VA Care: Veterans entitled to VA care can seek assistance for pes planus, including the provision of custom orthotics to alleviate discomfort.
    • Boot Wear and Standing in Formation: While certain activities such as wearing tight boots or standing in formation may contribute to flat feet, the multifactorial nature of the condition requires a comprehensive assessment of all risk factors.

Conclusion

Understanding the complexities of pes planus and its connection to VA disability ratings is essential for veterans seeking recognition and support for their service-related foot conditions. Whether congenital or acquired, demonstrating the impact of flat feet on overall health and establishing a clear service connection are key aspects of navigating the VA disability claims process often with the assistance of an accredited legal professional. By emphasizing a sustained condition, documenting in-service foot issues, and seeking professional diagnosis, veterans can enhance their chances of securing the disability benefits they rightfully deserve.

Also read: Orthopedic and Veterans Disability Q&A

At Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting, a veteran-owned company, we specialize in Independent Medical Opinions (IMOs) known as Nexus letters.

Our purpose is to empower YOU, the veteran, to take charge of your medical evidence and provide you with valuable educational tools and research to guide you on your journey.

Understanding the unique challenges veterans face, our commitment lies in delivering exceptional service and support.

Leveraging an extensive network of licensed independent medical professionals, all well-versed in the medical professional aspects of the VA claims process, we review the necessary medical evidence to incorporate in our reports related to your VA Disability Claim.

Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting is not a law firm, accredited claims agent, or affiliated with the Veterans Administration or Veterans Services Organizations. However, we are happy to discuss your case with your accredited VA legal professional.

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Danielle McClaskey

Client Relations Specialist U.S. Navy Veteran

In her active-duty service in the United States Navy, Danielle undertook a variety of responsibilities, ranging from essential administrative duties to providing crucial medical care. Her multifaceted contributions played a pivotal role in enhancing her fellow service members’ operational effectiveness and well-being.

As a disabled veteran, she developed a profound understanding of the unique challenges faced by her fellow service members. Now, in her civilian role, Danielle is a valued member of the Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting team, where she continues to leverage her extensive background and educational achievements to provide exceptional support to veterans.

Leticia

LETICIA

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Leticia has been in the medical field for nearly 14 years. She has always had a passion for medicine and caring for her community. Leticia has spent the last 4 years caring for veterans and first responders with alcohol and substance abuse in a medical rehabilitation setting whilst continuing her education working towards a degree in software development.

Someday she hopes to develop medical software that further enhances the patient’s experience in medical care. Leticia has a deep respect and love for those who have served as she comes from a family of law enforcement and military veterans.

Alan Bucholz

ALAN BUCHOLZ, PA-C:

U.S ARMY VETERAN, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Alan enlisted in the US Army as a combat medic, where he deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Influenced by his time as a combat medic, he attended the Interservice Physician Assistant program while on
active duty, was commissioned as an officer, and subsequently deployed to Afghanistan.  

Alan’s military and medical background inspired him to form Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting with his
wife, Leah Bucholz, a Physician Assistant and Army Combat Veteran.  He has devoted himself to using his
knowledge gained in the military as a medical professional to serve the Veteran community.

Alan Bucholz

ALAN BUCHOLZ, PA-C:

U.S ARMY VETERAN, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Alan enlisted in the US Army as a combat medic, where he deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Influenced by his time as a combat medic, he attended the Interservice Physician Assistant program while on
active duty, was commissioned as an officer, and subsequently deployed to Afghanistan.  

Alan’s military and medical background inspired him to form Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting with his
wife, Leah Bucholz, a Physician Assistant and Army Combat Veteran.  He has devoted himself to using his
knowledge gained in the military as a medical professional to serve the Veteran community.

Julie Pereira

JULIE PEREIRA:

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

During her Active-Duty time in the US Navy as a Hospital Corpsman, Julie provided medical administration
and patient care services in the field, the hospital, and base medical office settings.  This military medical and
administrative background has given Julie the hands-on experience and extensive knowledge necessary to
provide unparalleled service to her fellow Veterans through the Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting team.

Julie’s educational achievements include a Bachelor of Arts with a minor in Human Services and a pre-nursing associate in arts and science.

Julie has been inspired by her firsthand knowledge of navigating the VA Benefits process. She has dedicated
most of her adult life to serving Veterans through her knowledge derived from her military and civilian medical
education and training.

Jennifer Januta

JENNIFER JANUTA

U.S ARMY VETERAN, CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER

During her Active-Duty service in the Army, Jennifer supported various research efforts centered on combat casualty care and Soldier performance. Her military background gave her unique insights into veterans’ distinct challenges, ultimately inspiring her to join the Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting team.

Jennifer’s educational achievements include a master’s in molecular biology from George Washington University and a master’s in data science from Texas Tech University. Jennifer wholeheartedly dedicates herself to utilizing her knowledge and expertise gained from 15 years of healthcare experience to impact the well-being of those who have served positively.

Alan Bucholz

ALAN BUCHOLZ, PA-C:

U.S ARMY VETERAN, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Alan enlisted in the US Army as a combat medic, where he deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Influenced by his time as a combat medic, he attended the Interservice Physician Assistant program while on
active duty, was commissioned as an officer, and subsequently deployed to Afghanistan.  

Alan’s military and medical background inspired him to form Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting with his
wife, Leah Bucholz, a Physician Assistant and Army Combat Veteran.  He has devoted himself to using his
knowledge gained in the military as a medical professional to serve the Veteran community.

Leah - Meet the Team

LEAH BUCHOLZ, PA-C

U.S ARMY VETERAN, MEDICAL EXPERT & FORMER C & P EXAMINER

Meet Leah, the founder, and leader of our organization. ​​A combat veteran herself, she understands the unique challenges veterans face, making her mission about much more than running a successful business. It’s about the opportunity to provide a legacy of exceptional service for our heroes.​

​“It is essential to remember that there is no greater honor than caring for service members on the battlefield. Continuing to care for Veterans after separation is an opportunity that I have been afforded to extend that care in this new battlefield related to service-incurred disabilities.”

Her inspiration comes from years of military experience working alongside her fellow servicemembers, particularly key leaders who have influenced her journey, applying their wisdom to her path. She values her team deeply, most of whom are also disabled combat veterans, each member a trusted individual sharing her vision.

 “Driven by passion and purpose, I aim to create a sustainable change that empowers veterans and future generations.”

Leah’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. From overcoming and living with her service-related disabilities to navigating work-life balance, she’s learned to face each hurdle head-on with resilience.  Like many of her veteran brothers and sisters, her early background consisted of limited resources and opportunities. Her military service has helped shape her into a steadfast leader, offering relatable inspiration to others.

Join us in celebrating Leah, a compassionate leader, and resilient veteran, driving our mission to serve those who served our nation.