How to Combat Foot Drop

Foot drop can treated effectively.

Foot drop is a more symptom-driven disorder than an actual disease. Foot drop is usually a sign of a more serious problem in the musculature, neurological or anatomical regions of the foot. The signs of foot drop include not being to lift your foot, dragging the foot while walking, elevating the thighs while walking, and numbness or pain in the foot. There are ways to help this condition, but visit your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms.

Things You'll Need

• Ankle brace
• Foot splint
• Electrical stimulator

Instructions

1. Purchase a brace or a splint. Go to a pharmacy, medical supply store or your doctor to get a brace or a splint. Put the brace on your ankle or the splint in your shoe to help stabilize your foot.

2. Seek out a physical therapist. Physical therapy is an excellent way to fight foot drop, as it strengthens the muscles, helps maintain range of motion in the ankle and knee and can improve walking motion.

3. Use an electrical stimulator. Stimulation of the peroneal nerve can be an effective treatment for foot drop. The peroneal nerve elevates the foot when you step. The stimulator can be positioned just below the knee or it can implanted by a surgeon.

4. Elect surgery. As in many cases, when basic remedies do not work, surgery may be the only available option. A foot surgeon will most likely fuse ankle or foot bones, or move foot tendons to leg muscles to help with your walking issues, according to the Mayo Clinic.

References

• Mayo Clinic: Foot Drop