Drop Foot

Description

Drop foot is a condition that causes difficulty picking up your feet as you walk. It can happen as a result of weakened muscles or from nerve injury. 

Symptoms

Inability to lift the front part of your foot. Your foot may also make a slapping sound as it hits the ground as you walk. The affected leg may also drag behind you as you walk. 

Treatment Options

Your podiatrist will first order advanced tests to figure out the cause of your drop foot. Once this has been figured out, first-line treatment usually consists of wearing an Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFO) brace, nerve stimulation and/or physical therapy. In some cases, surgery may be required.

Treatment Options Description (with Duration)

The purpose an AFO is to hold the foot in a proper position and help aid in walking; it also helps to clear the foot above the ground when walking so the foot no longer drags. Nerve stimulation may be needed to improve the overall health of the affected nerve, which will then improve your symptoms. Physical therapy can also be prescribed to help strengthen weakened muscles so they can function better to make walking safer. In some cases, surgery may be needed for more permanent relief. 

Expected Outcome

Prognosis and outcomes vary according to the cause of the drop foot.

Restore Movement and Function To Your Foot Quickly 

At our New York City foot clinic, we understand just how difficult it can be to live with Drop Foot. If you're suffering from this condition, or any other foot/ankle pain, our foot doctors, located in Downtown and Midtown Manhattan areas of NYC, can help you get back to comfortable and happy living. To find out more, call us at 917-398-3668 or book an appointment online.