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Foot Drop

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Foot drop (also known as drop foot) is a condition characterized by the inability to lift the front part of the foot, causing the toes to drag while walking. This often results in a high-stepping gait, as individuals compensate by lifting the knee higher than normal to avoid tripping.

Foot drop is not a disease itself, but a sign of an underlying neurological, muscular, or anatomical problem. It may result from injury to the peroneal nerve, lumbar nerve root compression, stroke, muscular dystrophy, or other conditions that affect the nerves or muscles involved in dorsiflexion.

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include physical therapy, bracing, nerve stimulation, or in some cases, surgery.

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Symptoms of Foot Drop

  • Change in gait--to avoid dragging your toes on the ground, you may find yourself lifting your legs higher or extending them in a wide arc
  • Inability to lift the front part of your foot
  • Numbness in the affected foot or in its ankle
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Causes of  Foot Drop

  • Adverse reactions to drugs, including alcohol
  • Muscle disorders such as Lou Gehrig's disease or muscular dystrophy
  • Neurological disorders such cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, or stroke
  • Nerve damage

Treatments for Foot Drop

Management of foot drop focuses on improving mobility, preventing complications, and addressing the underlying cause.

Treatment options include:

  • Ankle-Foot Orthoses (AFOs): Braces or splints that support the foot and ankle, maintaining proper alignment and preventing the foot from dragging during walking.
  • Physical Therapy: Exercises aimed at strengthening lower leg muscles, enhancing balance, and improving gait. Stretching routines help maintain joint flexibility and prevent stiffness.
  • Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES): A technique that uses electrical impulses to stimulate nerves and muscles, promoting foot dorsiflexion during walking. This method can improve walking speed and reduce the risk of falls.
  • Surgical Interventions: In cases where conservative treatments are ineffective, surgical options like tendon transfer procedures (e.g., the Bridle procedure) may be considered. These surgeries aim to restore foot dorsiflexion by rerouting tendons from stronger muscles
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Step Into a Higher Standard of Foot Health x Whole-Person Care

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