Expert: John L - 9/15/2010

Question
Dear Mr. Lewis:

First, thank you for donating your time and knowledge to answering questions of this nature.

I signed up for the NG a few months ago.  While running at home and away from drill, I tore a tendon in my ankle.  The civilian doctor took X-rays and diagnosed the condition as posterior tibial tendonitis (sp?) - basically an overused tendon.  He then examined my feet and asked if I had any shin, knee, hip, or back pain after running, too.  I said yes, that my shins, lower back, and sometimes knees hurt after a good 1.5 - 2 mile run.  He stated that my flat feet were likely the cause of this pain.  

I told him about my commitment to the NG and asked if this would affect my ability to serve, and he stated, in his opinion, prolonged marches or runs - especially with weight - will only lead to increased pain and possible problems with my knees or back which would require surgery to correct.  He said orthotics were unlikely to help (as I know, since I'd already been wearing them before this happened).

I am worried I might get medically discharged.  I've already turned in all the paperwork to my SSG and have to continue doing so.  What are the chances they will decide to medically discharge me, especially in light of the budget cutbacks?

What also concerns me is whether I might get RE-4'ed for fraudulent enlistment.  I told MEPS of my flat feet but said I had never had any problem with them - and in fact, I never had to go to a doctor in my life prior to this incident for my flat feet or pain associated with it.  Am I in danger of a discharge for fraudulent enlistment?


Thank you for any assistance/insight you can provide.

Answer
Flat feet are not an issue for joining or staying in, but the other injury will not allow you to serve.  If you haven't been to basic yet, you will just get an entry level discharge that has no affect on your civilian life.

As far as fraudulent, I don't see that happening.  Your current injury is what is going to hurt you.