We move our feet so often every day that we sometimes take the complexity of the act for granted. It’s such an everyday phrase for us, like saying how Tony Bennett’s performance at Indiana University Auditorium on Sept. 20 will really “get your feet moving.” But what if you have trouble getting your feet moving? What if you can’t get the front of your foot to cooperate so easily anymore? That might be foot drop.
Also known as drop foot, this condition is the result of a paralysis or weakness of the muscles that control the front of the foot. This often causes the front of your foot to drag along the ground, or you might lift your knee higher to compensate.
Foot drop is not a condition itself, but the symptom of a deeper problem. A variety of different causes can be responsible, including diabetes-related neuropathy, disorders such as ALS, multiple sclerosis and muscular dystrophy, or damage to the peroneal nerve through compression or trauma.
A big part of treating drop foot is identifying and addressing that underlying problem, but actions can still be taken to help the foot weakness itself. Depending on the severity of the problem, physical therapy, orthotics, and nerve stimulation procedures can all improve one’s gait and comfort. If conservative measures don’t work, surgery might be considered to improve strength and mobility.
If you or someone you know is having difficulty lifting one or both feet, the Bloomington office of Kevin Powers, DPM wants to help. Our professional evaluation can help determine the scope of the problem and start on the proper care. Schedule an appointment with us by calling (812) 333-4422.
