Metatarsalgia VA Rating (Diagnostic Code 5279): Maximum 10 Percent Explained

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Metatarsalgia can turn something as simple as walking into a daily grind, especially after years of long marches, hard surfaces, and heavy gear.  

While the VA caps the metatarsalgia VA rating at a single percentage, that doesn’t mean the condition stops affecting your overall compensation.  

This post explains how the VA rates metatarsalgia and how a 10% foot condition can still drive a higher overall VA rating. 

Summary of Key Points

• The VA rates metatarsalgia under diagnostic code 5279, with a maximum schedular rating of 10%. 

• Even though metatarsalgia is capped at 10%, your overall VA rating can increase if it causes or worsens other service-connected conditions that are rated separately and combined. 

• A C&P exam for metatarsalgia assesses how your condition affects standing, walking, and weight-bearing, with a focus on functional limitations caused by foot pain. 

Can I Get VA Disability for Metatarsalgia?

Yes, you may be eligible for VA disability for metatarsalgia if you meet specific VA criteria. The VA recognizes metatarsalgia as a compensable foot condition when medical evidence shows it causes chronic pain in the ball of the foot and is connected to your military service. 

To be eligible for a metatarsalgia VA rating, you need: 

• A current diagnosis of metatarsalgia 

• An in-service event, injury, illness, or aggravation 

• A medical nexus (i.e., link) between your current diagnosis and your in-service event, injury, or illness 

Causes of Metatarsalgia in Veterans

Metatarsalgia is usually caused by repeated stress and pressure on the ball of the foot, which is common in military service. 

Contributing factors may include prolonged marching or running, carrying heavy loads, wearing rigid or ill-fitting boots, and long periods of standing on hard surfaces.  

Training demands and physically intensive duties can place constant pressure on the forefoot, leading to chronic pain and inflammation. 

Foot structure issues, prior injuries, or changes in gait from other service-connected conditions may also worsen symptoms over time. 

How the VA Evaluates Metatarsalgia for Disability

The VA rates metatarsalgia under diagnostic code (DC) 5279, which provides a single 10% rating, whether the condition affects one foot or both. This is the maximum schedular rating available for metatarsalgia. 

In other words, once you’re rated at 10% for metatarsalgia, the VA considers the condition fully compensated under the rating schedule.  

Even if symptoms worsen, involve both feet, or require ongoing treatment, the VA can’t assign a higher schedular rating under this diagnostic code. 

Metatarsalgia VA Rating Chart

Diagnostic Code 5279, Metatarsalgia	VA Rating
Anterior (Morton’s disease), unilateral, or bilateral	10%

Metatarsalgia and Secondary Service Connection

Although metatarsalgia itself is capped at a 10% VA rating, that doesn’t mean additional compensation is off the table. 

You may qualify for a higher combined VA rating if it leads to or aggravates other service-connected conditions that the VA can rate separately. 

For example, chronic foot pain may change how you walk or stand, placing extra stress on other parts of the body. Over time, this altered gait can contribute to additional conditions such as: 

• Plantar fasciitis

• Arthritis in the feet or ankles 

• Knee, hip, or lower back conditions 

• Tendon or ligament injuries related to abnormal weight-bearing 

If these secondary conditions are medically linked to your metatarsalgia, they may be rated separately under VA rules and combined with your existing VA rating. 

Learn More: What is Secondary Service Connection for VA Disability? 

>> Calculate Your Combined VA Rating

Preparing For Your Metatarsalgia C&P Exam

A compensation & pension (C&P) exam evaluates how metatarsalgia affects your ability to stand, walk, and bear weight. The examiner focuses on functional limitations caused by forefoot pain. 

Be prepared to describe when the pain occurs, what triggers it, and how it limits daily activities.  

If you change how you walk, avoid standing for long periods, or use orthotics or special footwear, mention that during the exam. 

A C&P exam isn’t required for every claim, but if one is scheduled, you must attend. Missing it may result in a decision without essential evidence. 

Learn More: How do I Know if My C&P Exam Went Well? 

Filing a VA Claim for Metatarsalgia

You can get on your computer and file your VA claim online. You may also download and complete VA Form 21-526EZ and submit it by mail, fax, or in person at a VA regional office. 

You may also submit an Intent to File to lock in an earlier effective date while you gather medical evidence. 

This gives you up to one year to complete your claim and may result in back pay if benefits are approved. 

Learn More: Can I Get VA Disability Back Pay? 

Conclusion

Metatarsalgia is capped at a 10% VA rating, but that doesn’t mean its impact on your claim ends there. When chronic foot pain affects how you stand, walk, or move, it can contribute to additional conditions that the VA may rate separately. By understanding the rating criteria, preparing for your C&P exam, and filing your claim strategically, you put yourself in a stronger position to maximize your combined VA disability rating. 

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