SAF/MRBD (PDBR)
3351 Celmers Lane
JBA NAF Washington, MD 20762-6435

MEMORANDUM FOR THE DIRECTOR, AIR FORCE REVIEW BOARDS AGENCY

SUBJECT:  Physical Disability Board of Review Recommendation on
	Case Number PD-2019-00393

	In accordance with Title 10 § 1554a and in compliance with DoDI 6040.44, the Physical Disability Board of Review (PDBR) adjudicated the disability rating accompanying the medical separation of the covered individual from the United States Air Force.  After carefully reviewing the application and medical separation case file, the PDBR recommended no re-characterization of the separation or modification of the disability rating previously assigned.  I recommend you accept this proposed decision.

	The covered individual was an active duty E5, Special Purpose Vehicle Maintainer, medically separated for “chronic bilateral heel pain,” each rated 10%, coded 5311 (muscle group X1, with a combined disability rating of 20%.  The VA also rated heel conditions 10% each, coded 5311, based on the Compensation & Pension examination, citing moderate muscle disability in each foot.  The panel noted the Achilles tendons had calcific deposits bilaterally proximal to the tendon insertion in the heels.  While, the CI had surgery on the left heel, there was no evidence to support a moderately severe condition for either the left or right heel proximate to separation since ankle range of motions were normal and there was a lack of tenderness of either Achilles tendon just prior to separation.  Other foot or ankle codes do not offer a rating higher than 10% for either heel condition.  After due deliberation, considering all the evidence and mindful of VASRD §4.3 (reasonable doubt), the panel concluded there was insufficient cause to recommend a change in the PEB adjudication for the chronic bilateral heel conditions.  

SAF/MRB
3351 Celmers Lane
JBA NAF Washington, MD 20762-6435

Dear XXXXXXXXXX:

		Reference your application submitted under the provisions of DoDI 6040.44 (Section 1554, 10 USC), PDBR Case Number PD-2019-00393.

After careful consideration of your application and treatment records, the Physical Disability Board of Review determined that the rating assigned at the time of final disposition of your disability evaluation system processing was appropriate.  Accordingly, the Board recommended no rating modification or re-characterization of your separation.

I have carefully reviewed the evidence of record and the recommendation of the Board.  I concur with that finding and their conclusion that modification of your disability rating or characterization of your separation is not warranted.  Accordingly, I accept the recommendation that your application be denied.