Primary service-connected condition

DC 5269 — Plantar fasciitis

Also known as: heel pain, plantar fasciitis, Plantar fasciitis, heel spur, bottom of foot pain, arch pain, morning foot pain

Mapped secondary conditions
5

These are commonly claimed secondary connections linked to this primary disability. Use them as a screening tool for conversations with your doctor, VSO, or VA-accredited attorney.

Primary Secondary

Plantar fasciitis Knee, other impairment

5257
Strong

How the connection is commonly explained

Foot pain alters gait, stressing the knee joint

Filing tip

File as a secondary claim to DC 5269 (Plantar fasciitis). Provide medical records showing foot pain alters gait, stressing the knee joint and request a nexus opinion linking Knee, other impairment to your service-connected condition.

Relationship type: Caused by
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Primary Secondary

Plantar fasciitis Lumbosacral or cervical strain

5237
Strong

How the connection is commonly explained

Changed gait mechanics from foot pain affect spinal alignment

Filing tip

File as a secondary claim to DC 5269 (Plantar fasciitis). Provide medical records showing changed gait mechanics from foot pain affect spinal alignment and request a nexus opinion linking Lumbosacral or cervical strain to your service-connected condition.

Relationship type: Caused by
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Primary Secondary

Plantar fasciitis Ankle, limited motion

5271
Moderate

How the connection is commonly explained

Foot conditions alter ankle mechanics

Filing tip

File as a secondary claim to DC 5269 (Plantar fasciitis). Provide medical records showing foot conditions alter ankle mechanics and request a nexus opinion linking Ankle, limited motion to your service-connected condition.

Relationship type: Caused by
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Primary Secondary

Plantar fasciitis Major depressive disorder

9434
Moderate

How the connection is commonly explained

Chronic foot pain limiting mobility leads to depression

Filing tip

File as a secondary claim to DC 5269 (Plantar fasciitis). Provide medical records showing chronic foot pain limiting mobility leads to depression and request a nexus opinion linking Major depressive disorder to your service-connected condition.

Relationship type: Caused by
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Primary Secondary

Plantar fasciitis Thigh, limitation of flexion

5252
Moderate

How the connection is commonly explained

Gait compensation stresses the hip

Filing tip

File as a secondary claim to DC 5269 (Plantar fasciitis). Provide medical records showing gait compensation stresses the hip and request a nexus opinion linking Thigh, limitation of flexion to your service-connected condition.

Relationship type: Caused by
View condition detail

This condition may also be secondary to

Ankle, limited motion
DC 5271
Strong

Ankle instability changes foot mechanics

Flatfoot, acquired
DC 5276
Strong

Flat feet are a primary cause of plantar fasciitis.

Post-traumatic arthritis
DC 5010
Moderate

Altered gait mechanics from arthritic joints affect feet

Sciatic nerve, paralysis
DC 8520
Moderate

Altered gait from numbness changes foot mechanics

How to File a Secondary Claim

1. Have your primary condition already service-connected.
2. Get diagnosed with the secondary condition.
3. Get a nexus letter from a doctor linking them.
4. File VA Form 21-526EZ and select the claim as a secondary claim.
5. Attend the C&P exam if one is scheduled.

Disclaimer: Secondary connections shown are based on commonly established medical links. Individual claims require medical evidence. Consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney.