VA disability ratings can sometimes be confusing, especially for orthopedic conditions like foot drop. This guide will clarify how the VA rates foot drop, what veterans can expect, and how to navigate service connection and benefits. If you’ve been denied compensation, we’ll explain how to appeal and ensure you get the benefits you deserve.
What Is Foot Drop?
Foot drop is a condition that makes it difficult to lift the front part of the foot, leading to challenges with walking and an increased risk of falls. It is often caused by:
- Ankle weakness
- Nerve damage (such as in the sciatic nerve)
- Neurological conditions like traumatic brain injuries, diabetes, or stroke.
For veterans, foot drop can have a profound effect on mobility and quality of life, often requiring the use of assistive devices and leading to secondary issues like hip issues or back pain.
Common Symptoms of Foot Drop
Some common symptoms of foot drop include:
- Dragging or tripping of the foot while walking
- Difficulty wearing regular shoes
- Tingling sensations or numbness in the foot
- Weakness in the lower leg and foot muscles
- Significant balance issues and frequent falls
VA Disability Ratings for Foot Drop
The VA rates foot drop under Diagnostic Code 8520 for paralysis of the sciatic nerve. Ratings range from 10% to 80%, depending on the severity of the condition:
- 40% Rating: Moderately severe paralysis of the sciatic nerve.
- 60% Rating: Partial paralysis that is severe, with significant muscle atrophy or loss.
- 80% Rating (Foot Drop): Complete loss of movement in the muscles below the knee, causing the foot to “dangle and drop.” Flexion of the knee may also be severely impacted.
Note: If you have foot drop, you are likely eligible for an 80% disability rating, as the condition typically involves complete paralysis of the muscles controlling the foot and ankle.
Service Connection for Foot Drop
To qualify for VA benefits, you must establish a service connection for foot drop. There are three primary pathways:
1. Direct Service Connection
You must provide evidence showing a direct link between your foot drop and an in-service event or injury.
To establish direct service connection, you’ll need:
- A current diagnosis of foot drop
- Evidence of an in-service injury, event, or exposure
- A medical nexus linking your condition to your time in service
Example: A veteran who suffered an ankle injury during service and later developed foot drop may qualify for direct service connection.
2. Secondary to Another Service-Connected Condition
Foot drop can also be secondary to another condition already service-connected, such as:
- Diabetes mellitus (nerve damage)
- Spinal injuries or neurological disorders
If you can show that an existing service-connected condition caused or worsened your foot drop, you may be eligible for secondary service connection.
3. Service Connection via Aggravation
If you had foot drop prior to service, but it worsened due to your time in the military, you may qualify for service connection based on aggravation.
Example: A veteran with mild foot drop prior to service may experience a worsening of the condition due to military-related activities.
C&P Exam for Foot Drop
A Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam for foot drop will be performed by a VA doctor or a contracted physician. During the exam:
- The examiner will evaluate your condition, test nerve function, and document symptoms.
- You may be asked about your military service and when symptoms began.
Pro Tip: Bring someone with you to the exam who can note the examiner’s approach, duration, and questions. This can help if you need to challenge an unfavorable exam report.
TDIU for Foot Drop
If your foot drop prevents you from maintaining substantially gainful employment, you may qualify for Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU).
To receive TDIU benefits, you must show:
- Your service-connected condition(s) prevent you from working.
- You have at least one disability rated 60% or a combined rating of 70% with one condition rated at least 40%.
For veterans with severe foot drop who cannot walk or stand for prolonged periods, TDIU may provide compensation at the 100% disability rate.
Denied Your VA Claim for Foot Drop?
Foot drop can have a significant impact on your quality of life, mobility, and ability to work. Veterans with foot drop typically qualify for an 80% disability rating, but unclear rating criteria can sometimes lead to denials or lower ratings.
If the VA denied your claim or assigned the wrong rating, don’t give up. We can help you navigate the appeals process and fight for the benefits you deserve.
Contact us for a free case evaluation →
