How the VA Rates Plantar Fasciitis
The plain-English version of the 38 CFR Part 4, DC 5269 (effective 2021) criteria a VA rater evaluates Plantar Fasciitis against, with the 2026 monthly rate at each level. A reference to what the regulation describes — never a prediction of any rating.
Diagnostic code 5269
The rating levels
Criteria paraphrased from 38 CFR Part 4, DC 5269 (effective 2021) for readability. Monthly amounts are the 2026 rate (effective December 1, 2025) for a veteran with no dependents if this were the only rated condition — dependents add more, and multiple conditions combine under the VA’s own math.
10%
$180.42/month
Plantar fasciitis of one foot or both feet, with or without surgical treatment, that has not improved (symptoms continue) after nonsurgical treatment such as orthotics, stretching, or injections.
Examples from this level’s criteria
- Sharp heel pain, worst with first steps in the morning
- Pain along the arch with standing or walking
- Symptoms continue despite orthotics or stretching
- Tenderness at the heel/arch on exam
20%
$356.66/month
Plantar fasciitis of one foot, with or without surgical treatment, that is not improved by nonsurgical treatment and has not improved with surgical treatment; OR bilateral plantar fasciitis not improved by nonsurgical treatment.
Examples from this level’s criteria
- Persistent heel/arch pain despite surgery (one foot), or
- Both feet affected with continued symptoms after nonsurgical care
- Significant limitation of standing and walking tolerance
30%
$552.47/month
Bilateral plantar fasciitis, with or without surgical treatment, that has not improved with surgical treatment.
Examples from this level’s criteria
- Both feet affected and not improved by surgery
- Severe, treatment-resistant heel and arch pain
- Marked impairment of weight-bearing activities
The listed symptoms are examples that appear in each level’s criteria — not a checklist that earns a percentage. Raters apply the criteria as a whole.
The evidence that matters most
Records showing tried-and-failed conservative care (orthotics, PT, injections) — the rating turns on treatment that did not bring relief, and on whether one or both feet are involved
C&P exam tips for Plantar Fasciitis
- What wins this rating: documentation of which foot/feet are affected and that symptoms persist despite nonsurgical treatment (and, for the higher tiers, despite surgery).
- Bring records of orthotics, physical therapy, night splints, injections, or surgery and note continued symptoms.
- Describe the classic 'first-step' morning heel pain and how it limits standing and walking.
Common mistakes on Plantar Fasciitis claims
- Not documenting that prior treatment failed to relieve symptoms — improvement vs. non-improvement drives the rating.
- Failing to specify whether one or both feet are involved.
- Letting plantar fasciitis be merged with a general foot-injury rating instead of rated under its own code.
Frequently asked questions
What diagnostic code does the VA use for Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar Fasciitis is rated under 38 CFR Part 4, DC 5269 (effective 2021) — diagnostic code 5269.
What is the highest schedular VA rating for Plantar Fasciitis?
30% is the highest level in the rating schedule for Plantar Fasciitis. The criteria at that level describe: Bilateral plantar fasciitis, with or without surgical treatment, that has not improved with surgical treatment.
How much does a 30% VA rating for Plantar Fasciitis pay in 2026?
$552.47 per month, tax-free, for a veteran with no dependents (rates effective December 1, 2025) — more with a spouse, children, or dependent parents. If you have other rated conditions, the VA combines ratings using its own math rather than adding them.
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Start your claim — freeEducational information about the rating schedule — not legal or medical advice, never a prediction or promise of any rating, and not affiliated with the VA.