Condition

Achilles Tendinopathy — Independent Nexus Opinions

Pain, thickening, or degeneration of the Achilles tendon.

Overview

Achilles tendinopathy is a painful condition of the tendon connecting the calf to the heel. Repetitive loading, running, and jumping are recognized contributing factors.

Common symptoms

  • Pain at the back of the heel or above it
  • Morning stiffness
  • Thickening of the tendon
  • Pain with push-off or stairs

What the specialist reviews

  • Service treatment records and in-service injury or complaint documentation
  • Post-service medical records, imaging, and treatment history
  • Prior VA examinations and DBQs, if available
  • Relevant peer-reviewed medical literature

About the opinion

A nexus opinion addresses whether, in the physician's medical judgment, it is at least as likely as not that a condition is related to service or to another service-connected condition. The opinion is based solely on the evidence — it may or may not support a claim, and the VA makes all final decisions.

Not affiliated with the VA. We are a private, independent medical practice. Our opinions reflect the physician's honest medical judgment based on the evidence and favorable outcomes are never guaranteed. The VA makes all decisions on disability claims.

Free help is available. VA-accredited Veterans Service Officers (VSOs), such as those with national veterans organizations and state or county veteran offices, can help you file and manage a claim at no cost. You do not need to pay for a private medical opinion to file a claim.

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