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Evidence checklist

Claw Foot (Pes Cavus)

DC 527838 CFR § 4.71aMusculoskeletal

Evidence strength

Mark what you already have below and your evidence strength appears here.

Target
Saved locally
01

Specialist opinion

Highest value0 of 3 collected
Podiatric or orthopedic evaluation with weight-bearing foot examinationCritical

Weight-bearing examination documenting elevated arch height, heel position (varus/valgus), toe deformities (clawing), callus distribution, and subtalar mobility. VA rates pes cavus under DC 5278.

Private provider · independent opinion
Nexus opinion linking pes cavus to service ("at least as likely as not")Critical

A medical opinion connecting your claw foot deformity to military service activities or to a service-connected neurological condition (Charcot-Marie-Tooth, peroneal nerve injury) that caused progressive arch elevation.

Private provider · independent opinion
Neurological evaluation (if neurological etiology suspected)

Neurological workup to evaluate for hereditary or acquired neurological causes of pes cavus such as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, spinal cord pathology, or peroneal nerve injury.

Private provider · independent opinion
02

Treatment records

0 of 2 collected
Weight-bearing foot X-rays documenting arch elevation

Anteroposterior and lateral weight-bearing radiographs showing increased calcaneal pitch, metatarsal declination angle, and any associated metatarsal stress fractures from abnormal pressure distribution.

VA or private records · written request
Custom orthotic and footwear modification records

Records of custom foot orthoses, extra-depth shoes, and any surgical interventions (plantar fascia release, osteotomies, tendon transfers) addressing the deformity.

VA or private records · written request
03

Lay statements

0 of 2 collected
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.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
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.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
04

Benefits questionnaire

0 of 1 collected
Completed DBQ Foot ConditionsCritical

Standardized form capturing pes cavus findings, associated deformities, and functional limitations.

Provider-completed · VA DBQ formHow to get this →
05

Service records

0 of 1 collected
Service treatment records (STRs)Critical

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

NPRC / milConnect · SF-180
Condition guideRating criteria and what VA looks forBuddy statement builderGuided VA Form 21-10210

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