What Is Drop Foot? Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment You Need to Know

What Is Drop Foot?

Drop foot, also called foot drop, is not a disease itself, but a symptom of an underlying problem. It refers to the inability to lift the front part of the foot due to weakness or paralysis in the muscles that control dorsiflexion (the motion of raising the foot at the ankle).

As a result, the toes may drag on the ground while walking, causing a person to adjust their gait in a noticeable way—often lifting the knee higher than normal to prevent tripping.

Common Symptoms of Drop Foot

• Dragging of the foot or toes when walking

• High-stepping, exaggerated gait (steppage gait)

• Difficulty clearing the foot during swing phase of walking

• Frequent tripping or stumbling

• Numbness or tingling (in some cases)

What Causes Drop Foot?

Drop foot is caused by a disruption in the nerve or muscle pathway that lifts the foot. Common causes include:

1. Peroneal Nerve Injury

• The most frequent cause

• Can happen from leg crossing, prolonged squatting, trauma, or surgery (especially knee or hip surgery)

2. Spinal Issues

• Herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or nerve root compression in the lower back

• These can affect the nerves that control foot movement

3. Neurological Conditions

• Stroke

• Multiple sclerosis (MS)

• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)

• Cerebral palsy

4. Muscle Disorders or Injuries

• Conditions like muscular dystrophy

• Direct trauma to the leg or foot muscles

How Is Drop Foot Diagnosed?

Diagnosis starts with a physical exam, followed by tests such as:

• Nerve conduction studies and EMG (electromyography) to assess nerve and muscle function

• MRI or CT scans if spinal issues or brain involvement is suspected

• X-rays if bone or joint problems are involved

Treatment Options for Drop Foot

1. Ankle-Foot Orthosis (AFO)

• A custom brace that holds the foot in a neutral position

• Helps improve walking and prevents tripping

2. Physical Therapy

• Strengthening and stretching exercises

• Gait training to improve walking mechanics

• Electrical stimulation in some cases

3. Shoe Modifications & Orthotics

Footwear matters more than you might think. A podiatrist may recommend:

• Supportive shoes with stiff soles or rocker bottoms

• Custom orthotic inserts to correct alignment

• Lift modifications if leg length discrepancy is present

These adjustments can reduce stress on the lower leg and make walking more efficient.

Footwear matters more than you might think. A podiatrist may recommend:

• Supportive shoes with stiff soles or rocker bottoms

• Custom orthotic inserts to correct alignment

• Lift modifications if leg length discrepancy is present

These adjustments can reduce stress on the lower leg and make walking more efficient.

When to See a Doctor

If you suddenly notice foot dragging, frequent tripping, or weakness in your leg, don’t ignore it. Drop foot can be a sign of a serious neurological or muscular condition. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and improve mobility.

Need help managing foot drop? Schedule an appointment with Dr. Gireesh Reddy or Dr. Sirisha Pokala at Restore Foot & Ankle Specialists by calling (469) 573-3427 or by booking online.