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.
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)
Drop foot is caused by a disruption in the nerve or muscle pathway that lifts the foot. Common causes include:
The most frequent cause
Can happen from leg crossing, prolonged squatting, trauma, or surgery (especially knee or hip surgery)
Herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or nerve root compression in the lower back
These can affect the nerves that control foot movement
Stroke
Multiple sclerosis (MS)
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
Cerebral palsy
Conditions like muscular dystrophy
Direct trauma to the leg or foot muscles
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
A custom brace that holds the foot in a neutral position
Helps improve walking and prevents tripping
Strengthening and stretching exercises
Gait training to improve walking mechanics
Electrical stimulation in some cases
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.
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.