Evidence Checklist: Hammer Toes

Podiatric or orthopedic evaluation documenting hammer toe deformitiesCritical

Clinical examination documenting which toes are affected, whether deformities are flexible or rigid, presence of corns/calluses, pain with footwear, and functional limitations. VA rates under DC 5282.

Nexus opinion linking hammer toes to service ("at least as likely as not")Critical

A medical opinion connecting your hammer toe deformities to military service, including ill-fitting footwear, prolonged marching, or service-connected flatfoot that altered toe alignment.

Foot X-rays documenting hammer toe deformities

Radiographs confirming the deformity at the proximal interphalangeal joint (hammer toe), middle phalanx (claw toe), or distal phalanx (mallet toe).

Surgical records (if toe correction was performed)

Operative reports and post-operative documentation if surgical correction (arthroplasty, arthrodesis, or tendon release) was performed.

Documentation of footwear modifications

Records of extra-depth shoes, toe box stretching, silicone toe caps, or other accommodative measures prescribed.

Buddy statement from spouse, family, or fellow service member

A written statement from someone who can describe observable symptoms and how your condition affects daily life.

Personal statement describing symptoms and functional impact

Your own written account of how this condition affects your daily activities, work, and relationships. Describe your worst days.

Completed DBQ Foot ConditionsCritical

Standardized form capturing the number of affected toes, deformity type, flexibility, and functional limitations.

Service treatment records (STRs)Critical

Military medical records showing in-service treatment, complaints, or injuries related to this condition.