Can You Claim Plantar Fasciitis Secondary to a Service Injury With DVA?

Plantar fasciitis has two distinct SoP pathways for secondary claims: one through biomechanical changes caused by lower limb injuries, and one through weight gain at a notably lower BMI threshold than other obesity-cascade conditions.

The two SoP pathways

The Plantar Fasciitis SoP No. 82 of 2023 (Reasonable Hypothesis) and SoP No. 83 of 2023 (Balance of Probabilities) contain two relevant secondary claim factors.

Both pathways can be cited in the same claim. DVA only needs one factor satisfied.

Which pathway to use

The biomechanical pathway is supported when an accepted lower limb condition has visibly altered gait or foot mechanics, and a podiatrist has documented the specific biomechanical abnormalities. The weight pathway is supported when BMI was 25 or above at the time plantar fasciitis developed, and that weight gain followed an accepted injury that reduced physical activity.

Veterans with both altered gait and a BMI of 25+ at onset can cite both factors simultaneously, giving DVA two independent routes to find the claim satisfied.

Why the BMI 25 threshold matters

Most obesity-cascade secondary claims require BMI 30 or above. The plantar fasciitis SoP factor at BMI 25+ is one of the more accessible weight-related factors in the entire SoP system. Veterans who have gained weight following an accepted injury — even into the overweight range rather than clinical obesity — satisfy this factor without meeting the higher threshold required for other conditions.

What evidence you need

GARP M assessment for plantar fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is assessed under GARP M Chapter 9 (Musculoskeletal Conditions). The assessment considers pain frequency, severity, functional limitation on walking and weight-bearing, and treatment requirements. Plantar fasciitis that significantly limits standing and walking activities typically produces a modest but meaningful impairment rating that adds to your combined score.

Frequently asked questions

My BMI has been around 26–28 for years. Does that satisfy the factor?

Yes. BMI of 25 or greater satisfies the overweight definition in the plantar fasciitis SoP. You do not need to reach the 30+ threshold required for other conditions.

My accepted condition is a back injury, not a lower limb injury. Can I still use the biomechanical pathway?

A lumbar spine condition can alter gait through pain-related compensation patterns and antalgic posture. A podiatrist assessment is needed to document the specific biomechanical abnormalities present in the foot and link them to the altered gait pattern. This is more complex than a direct lower limb injury pathway but is viable with appropriate specialist evidence.

I've had plantar fasciitis treated successfully. Can I still claim it?

Yes. Past episodes of plantar fasciitis that caused impairment are relevant to the liability assessment and GARP M rating even if the condition is currently managed. The severity at its worst, treatment requirements, and functional impact during active periods are all assessable.