Flatfoot (Pes Planus)

DC 5276Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5276

A condition where the arches of your feet collapse, causing the entire sole to touch the ground when standing. The VA rates flatfoot based on severity of symptoms and whether orthotics help.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on how much it affects your ability to work and carry out daily activities. The examiner will focus on the functional limitations your condition causes, not just the diagnosis itself.

Diagnostic code

DC 5276

Rating range

0% – 50%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5276. This guide presents a plain-language summary and is not a substitute for the full regulatory text. Always consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney for case-specific advice.

Rating Levels

You have pronounced bilateral flatfoot with marked pronation, extreme tenderness, marked inward displacement and severe spasm of the Achilles tendon on manipulation, not improved by orthotics.

What the VA looks for

Marked pronation
Extreme tenderness of plantar surfaces
Marked inward displacement of Achilles tendon
Severe spasm on manipulation
Not improved by orthotics

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting that orthotics do NOT relieve your symptoms — the 50% rating specifically requires showing that orthopedic shoes or appliances do not help.
⚠Not filing for both feet if both are affected — bilateral flatfoot receives higher ratings (30% severe vs 20% severe unilateral, 50% pronounced vs 30% pronounced unilateral).
⚠Not getting X-rays showing structural deformity — objective evidence of marked deformity is required for severe and pronounced ratings.
⚠Not filing for secondary conditions — flatfoot commonly causes knee, hip, and back problems from altered gait and biomechanics.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Flatfoot (Pes Planus) Conditions

View evidence checklist →C&P exam prep guide →See secondary conditions →

Related Conditions

Conditions commonly associated with Flatfoot (Pes Planus) or rated under the same body system.

Plantar Fasciitis (Foot Pain)

DC 5276·Musculoskeletal·Possible secondary

Knee Limitation of Flexion

DC 5260·Musculoskeletal·Possible secondary

Lumbar Strain (Low Back Pain)

DC 5237·Musculoskeletal·Possible secondary

Ankle Limitation of Motion

DC 5271·Musculoskeletal·Possible secondary

Cervical Strain (Neck Pain)

DC 5237·Musculoskeletal

Knee Limitation of Extension

DC 5261·Musculoskeletal

Knee Instability (Subluxation)

DC 5257·Musculoskeletal

Degenerative Arthritis (Osteoarthritis)

DC 5003·Musculoskeletal

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 5276

Rating range

0% – 50%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have pronounced bilateral flatfoot with marked pronation, extreme tenderness, marked inward displacement and severe spasm of the Achilles tendon on manipulation, not improved by orthotics.

What the VA looks for

Marked pronation
Extreme tenderness of plantar surfaces
Marked inward displacement of Achilles tendon
Severe spasm on manipulation
Not improved by orthotics

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting that orthotics do NOT relieve your symptoms — the 50% rating specifically requires showing that orthopedic shoes or appliances do not help.

⚠Not filing for both feet if both are affected — bilateral flatfoot receives higher ratings (30% severe vs 20% severe unilateral, 50% pronounced vs 30% pronounced unilateral).

⚠Not getting X-rays showing structural deformity — objective evidence of marked deformity is required for severe and pronounced ratings.

⚠Not filing for secondary conditions — flatfoot commonly causes knee, hip, and back problems from altered gait and biomechanics.