Flat Feet and Gastrocnemius Muscle

[charger1972]

Hi all,

I visited a podiatrist last month and was diagnosed with having flat feet and prescribed custom orthotics. It seems to me that this is a clear disqualification and I have no idea how to proceed. Should I take my DoDMERB, and let them deal with it and disqualify me, or just withdraw my applications at this point? I have not received the orthotics yet.

The podiatrist further noted that I have an abnormally tight gastrocnemius muscle in my leg, which seems to be genetic as my father has the same thing. My dad also was at USMA for a year with that condition and had no issues. I also have been feeling pain in my lower back, to which a chiropractor observed my right disc is worn after an evaluation (worn more than how it should be). I have been undergoing chiropractic treatment and will probably continue.

I’d really hate for this to DQ me as USCGA is my top goal. Thanks for your help in advance.

 

[Capt MJ]

You work the process with DoDMERB, hoping for the best, that if DQs are assigned, then waivers will be considered - but you plan for the worst, and tend your alternative plans.

Guaranteed, as is often said here, 100% of those who do not apply, do not get in.

Let USCGA tell you no. Don’t quit.

 

[Academician]

I agree with @Capt MJ -- let them tell you. By the way, one of my students at the Air Force Academy has flat feet. He had no issues with being qualified with no waivers required. Your results may not be the 'same,' but it is a good data point. I recommend collecting all of the details from your doctors in case DoDMERB needs additional information. Also, as with any plans, have a back-up in case you do not gain a medical qualification or waiver. Best of luck!

 

[GoCubbies]

Hi all,

I visited a podiatrist last month and was diagnosed with having flat feet and prescribed custom orthotics. It seems to me that this is a clear disqualification and I have no idea how to proceed. Should I take my DoDMERB, and let them deal with it and disqualify me, or just withdraw my applications at this point? I have not received the orthotics yet.

The podiatrist further noted that I have an abnormally tight gastrocnemius muscle in my leg, which seems to be genetic as my father has the same thing. My dad also was at USMA for a year with that condition and had no issues. I also have been feeling pain in my lower back, to which a chiropractor observed my right disc is worn after an evaluation (worn more than how it should be). I have been undergoing chiropractic treatment and will probably continue.

I’d really hate for this to DQ me as USCGA is my top goal. Thanks for your help in advance.

Flat feet that are asymptomatic with orthotics is not a DQ.

So long as that gastroc isn’t affecting your ability to do physical activities, it shouldn’t be a DQ. You may need to provide the records from that podiatry visit to show DoDMERB what is the plan for you from the perspective of the podiatrist.

The back could be a Q or DQ. You will have to provide medical records for that issue.

As the posters here have noted, you won’t know the final outcome unless you apply and go through the process.

If I were you, I’d go through the whole process as there is no hard DQ so far in the history you’ve provided.