Foot drop, sometimes referred to as drop foot, is a condition in which one is unable to lift the front portion of their feet while walking. It can cause drag on the toes, as well as an abnormal gait creating discomfort, and increasing the possibility of falling, tripping, or even slipping. The foot drop isn’t an illness in and of itself, however it can be a sign that there is an unrelated muscular, neurological or anatomical issue.

Causes of Foot Drop

The drop in the foot can be because of a variety of reasons generally classified into muscle, neurological, and anatomical reasons.

1. Neurological Causes

Because foot movements are controlled by nerves, damage to the peroneal nerve, which is the primary nerve that lifts the foot — can result in foot drops. Common neurological reasons include:

Nerve injury 

Damage or compression to the peroneal nerve as a result of long kneeling or surgery or even trauma.

Herniated disc 

Dislocations of the spinal disc could create pressure on nerves and affect movement.

Stroke 

A stroke could damage areas of the brain responsible for controlling muscles, leading to a footfall.

MS (MS)

This auto-immune disease can affect nerve function and may result in the drop of feet.

Neuropathy

Conditions like diabetes neuropathy can cause nerve weakness, resulting in difficulties lifting your foot.

2. Muscular Causes

Certain conditions of the muscles can result in weakness of the muscles of foot lifting. This includes:

Muscular dystrophy 

A set of genetic diseases that can cause the progressive weakness of muscles.

Polio 

An infection that is viral that causes paralysis and muscle weakness.

Amyotrophic lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

A condition that causes the control of muscles.

3. Anatomical Causes

The mechanical or structural problems in the ankle, foot or leg may cause foot drops.

Bone fractures 

Broken foot or leg bones may affect the peroneal nerve.

Severe arthritis 

Joint inflammation could interfere with nerve function and mobility.

Symptoms of Foot Drop

The symptoms of a foot drop can be different depending on the severity of injury to the muscles or nerves. Signs that are common include:

The difficulty of lifting your foot 

The most obvious indication is inability to lift the front portion of the foot. This causes toe drag.

A gait with high-stepping 

People who have foot drop typically elevate their knees above normal while walking in order to prevent the risk of dragging their feet.

Stumbling and tripping often 

The weak muscles in the foot are more prone to falls.

A feeling of numbness or tingling 

Certain people might feel a decrease in sensation within the affected foot.

A weakness of the leg or foot 

The weakness of muscles can cause difficulty in walking or standing up properly.

Treatment Options for Foot Drop

The treatment for foot drop is dependent on the cause that is causing it as well as the extent of the issue. The most common treatments are:

1. Physiotherapy

A structured physiotherapy regimen will help strengthen muscles, enhance mobility, and retrain gait habits. The physiotherapist might suggest:

• Strengthening exercises and stretching are used to improve muscle function.
• Gait training for correcting walking patterns.
• Electrical stimulation therapy is for weak nerves and muscles.

2. Braces and Orthotics

Orthoses for the ankle (AFOs) (also known as braces) are typically employed to help support your feet, stopping it from moving. The custom orthotic inserts also assist in improving the foot’s posture.

3. Nerve Stimulation

In certain situations the use of FES, also known as functional electronic stimulation (FES) is utilized to increase the activity of nerves that control walking, allowing for an easier and natural walk.

4. Surgery

When a footfall is related to nerve injuries or extreme muscle weakness, surgery might be needed. Some common techniques include:

• The procedure of nerve surgery is to fix or replace damaged nerves.
• Tendon transfers to relocate muscles to compensate for the weak muscles of foot lift.
• Joint Fusion when there is a severe foot deformity.

Seeking Physiotherapy in Gurgaon

In the event that you, or someone in your family suffers from foot drop using physiotherapy, seeking out a professional can aid in improving mobility and your quality of life. The physiotherapist in Gurgaon has specialized in rehabilitation programmes that address foot drop. They provide customized treatments, gait coaching and exercises to strengthen muscles. The early intervention is able to significantly enhance outcomes, and aid individuals in gaining confidence in their ability to move.

FAQs

Does foot drop last forever?

Not necessarily. It can be temporary or long-lasting, depending on the underlying cause and the treatment.

Is foot drop treatable by surgery?

Yes. physiotherapy and nerve stimulation may help deal with foot drop, without surgery.

How long will recovery from the foot drop?

The recovery is dependent on the root reason, however physiotherapy may improve in a matter of weeks or months.

What exercises can help prevent the foot dropping?

Ankle flexion exercises, stretching resistance bands as well as gait exercises will help to strengthen your muscles as well as improve flexibility.