Understanding Foot Drop

What is Foot Drop?

Foot drop is a neuromuscular condition characterized by difficulty lifting the front part of the foot. This results in a dragging of the toes during walking and an increased risk of tripping.

Common Causes

• Nerve injury or compression
  • Peroneal nerve damage
  • Lower back conditions (herniated disk)
  • Multiple sclerosis
• Muscle disorders
  • Muscular dystrophy
  • Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
• Brain/spinal cord disorders
  • Stroke
  • Cerebral palsy

Symptoms

• Inability to lift the front part of your foot
• Dragging toes while walking
• High-stepping gait (steppage gait)
• Numbness or tingling in foot
• Weakness in foot and ankle

Diagnosis

• Physical examination
• Neurological tests
• Imaging studies (MRI, CT scan)
• Electromyography (EMG)
• Nerve conduction studies

Treatment Options

Conservative Treatments

• Braces or ankle-foot orthoses (AFO)
• Physical therapy exercises
• Gait training

Medical Interventions

• Nerve decompression surgery
• Tendon transfer procedures
• Functional electrical stimulation

Prevention and Management

1. Regular exercise as prescribed
2. Proper footwear
3. Use of prescribed assistive devices
4. Regular medical follow-up

When to Seek Medical Care

• Sudden onset of symptoms
• Worsening weakness
• Increased difficulty walking
• Development of new symptoms