Foot Drop

Sometimes known as drop foot, foot drop describes a difficulty in lifting the front part of the foot. Those afflicted may drag the front of their foot on the ground when walking. While foot drop is not a disease, it is a sign of an underlying neurological, muscular or anatomical problem. Foot drop typically affects only one foot and can either be temporary or permanent. Sometimes, foot drop is accompanied by pain, weakness or numbness in the foot. Foot drop is caused by weakness or paralysis of the muscles below the knee involved in lifting the front part of the foot.

The underlying causes of foot drop are varied. Causes may include muscle or nerve damage due to injury or diabetes, muscle or nerve disorders related to muscular dystrophy, central nervous system disorders such as ALS, multiple sclerosis or stroke, and reaction to some chemotherapy drugs. Treatment may vary depending on the initial cause of the foot drop. A brace on the ankle and foot to hold it in a normal position is often helpful in improving mobility.

To learn more about foot drop and our treatments, contact us.