Yes, you can potentially receive disability benefits for tarsal tunnel syndrome. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) recognizes tarsal tunnel syndrome as a condition eligible for disability compensation, provided it meets their established criteria.
Understanding Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome and Disability Eligibility
Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition caused by compression of the posterior tibial nerve as it passes through the tarsal tunnel in the ankle. This can lead to pain, numbness, and tingling in the foot. For veterans, establishing a service connection is crucial to obtaining VA disability benefits. This means demonstrating that your tarsal tunnel syndrome was caused or aggravated by your military service.
VA Disability Ratings for Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
The VA assigns disability ratings based on the severity of your condition and its impact on your daily life. For tarsal tunnel syndrome, specific guidelines are in place:
- Rating Percentage: A rating of 30 percent can be granted for tarsal tunnel syndrome affecting one foot. This rating applies to each foot individually. Therefore, if both the left and right feet are affected, you could receive a 30% rating for each foot.
- Diagnostic Code: Tarsal tunnel syndrome is rated under Diagnostic Code (DC) 8521.
- Historical Consistency: This specific rating for tarsal tunnel syndrome has been consistently applied since December 3, 2013, and continues to be the current standard.
To illustrate the rating, consider the following:
| Condition | Diagnostic Code | Rating for One Foot | Maximum Combined for Both Feet (if applicable) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome | 8521 | 30% | Can be rated 30% for left, 30% for right |
It's important to note that while a rating of 30% per foot is granted, the VA does not provide a higher individual rating for tarsal tunnel syndrome under this diagnostic code, regardless of severity beyond the established criteria for the 30% rating.
How to Apply for VA Disability Benefits for Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
If you are a veteran seeking disability compensation for tarsal tunnel syndrome, the application process generally involves several steps:
- Seek Medical Diagnosis: Obtain a formal diagnosis of tarsal tunnel syndrome from a qualified medical professional.
- Gather Medical Evidence: Collect all relevant medical records, including diagnostic tests (like nerve conduction studies or EMGs), doctor's notes, treatment history, and any evidence detailing the severity of your symptoms and their impact on your ability to work or perform daily activities.
- Establish Service Connection: You will need to provide evidence that links your tarsal tunnel syndrome to your military service. This could include:
- Documentation of an in-service injury or event that directly caused the condition.
- Evidence that the condition developed during service.
- Evidence that a service-connected condition aggravated your tarsal tunnel syndrome.
- A medical opinion (nexus letter) linking your condition to your service.
- File a Claim: Submit a disability compensation claim with the VA. You can do this online, by mail, or with the help of a Veterans Service Organization (VSO). Providing a comprehensive and fully developed claim with all necessary evidence can expedite the process.
Important Considerations
- Medical Documentation is Key: The success of your claim heavily relies on thorough and accurate medical documentation. Ensure your medical records clearly describe the diagnosis, symptoms, severity, and any treatments you've undergone.
- Bilateral Rating: If you experience tarsal tunnel syndrome in both feet, ensure your claim reflects this. Since the condition can be rated 30% for each foot, separate evaluations for the left and right feet can lead to a higher overall combined rating.
- Secondary Conditions: If your tarsal tunnel syndrome is a secondary condition resulting from another service-connected disability (e.g., a service-connected ankle injury leading to tarsal tunnel syndrome), this can also be considered for compensation.
To learn more about filing a claim and the evidence required, you can visit the VA's official disability compensation page and explore resources on evidence needed for a claim.
