If no arch appears when you stand on your toes, you may have flat feet.
The medical condition known as flat feet, or in medical terms "pes planus" -- also called fallen arches -- has in the past meant an automatic disqualification from military service. While still listed as a disqualifying factor, waivers can be given.
Medical Information
According to articles cited in the University of Maryland Medical Center's online Medical Encyclopedia, pes planus means, simply put, that the arch of the foot "collapses and comes in contact with the ground." The ankle bones may also pronate, or rotate inward from a vertical line. The condition may be congenital or acquired in adulthood.
Current Policies
The Department of Defense Medical Examination Review Board (DoDMERB) certifies individuals for admission to the service academies, ROTC programs, and direct commission programs. Pes planus is listed as an automatic disqualifying condition. U.S. Army Regulation 40-501 "Standards of Medical Fitness" also lists pes planus as a condition not meeting standards for acceptance. Military.com discusses medical disqualifications and the waiver application process.
Waivers
Although waivers can be given, a 2003 study by the U. S. Department of Defense's Accession Medical Standards Analysis & Research Activity System (AMSARA) showed a somewhat higher rate of early medical discharge for individuals with the condition. However, the difference was not statistically significant and the AMSARA report adds, "These findings alone do not provide evidence to change either the current accession standards or waiver criteria for pes planus."
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