Does anyone have experience with claims that deal with flat feet (pes planus)?

[gab2112]

I have issues with my knees, but only service records showing the bunion I got while in along with foot pains. I recently put in a claim for my knees but the way the c&p doctor acted around me makes me think that it is going to be denied. I did not have any service records showing issues with my knees. 

My examine during processing when I went in shows that I had moderate pes planus that was asymptomatic. I did not have any bunions. I went in when I was 17, and was out before I turned 21. My wife, and others have said that my knee issues has to be due to my horrible gait, and over pronation. The bunion I have on one foot would constantly bleed from all the road marches, and fun boot PT. I got it checked out while I was in, but was told I would need to re-up to get it operated on due to not having >6 months left. I have service records showing my bunion was at  45 degrees . I would say my feet are more of the severe category now. 

This past C&p exam has made me think now that I have to have lots of records showing feet issues to even attempt to make a claim. I haven't tried any treatment for my feet since leaving the service, because my knees have been the only issues. I plan on waiting for my knee denial before filing this claim if I do. 

Does anyone have any experience similar to this? I have researched the heck out of this, because I thought if it showed my feet were "moderate" flat feet when I went in then why try to claim flat feet. I have seen cases where people had this and won their appeal due to the examine said their feet were asymptomatic, and not causing pain before. Is it worth it to get an attorney to help show the relationship between feet, and knees if its possible? Thanks for any help. 

Edited November 8, 2017 by gab2112
added info

[broncovet]

My experience is more general, not with "flat feet".  However, claims are pretty much claims and you need these three things DOCUMENTED to win:

1.  Current diagnosis

2.  In service event or aggravation.

3.  Nexus or a doctor saying that your flat feet are at least as likely as not related to or aggravated by an in service event(s).  

      Once service connected, its rated by symptoms.  

     If you have not ordered your cfile, including the c and p exams, you should do so.  You need to know what is in your file to know how to proceed.  

While Im a fan of hiring an attorney instead of a VSO, there is a right time to hire an attorney, and that is at a BVA denial.  You can hire an attorney to represent you at the BVA, but, for me, this is not necessary.  

Board judges expect Vets to be represented by a not as competent VSO, or even pro se.  

CAVC judges do not.  They expect professionalism.  They wont cut you slack because you are pro se.  I dont recommend going to CAVC pro se, except for a writ of mandamus.