Foot Drop & Peroneal Nerve Palsy

What Is Foot Drop?

Foot drop (or drop foot) is a gait abnormality where raising the front part of the foot becomes difficult or impossible. Caused by weakness or paralysis of the muscles that lift the foot—frequently due to peroneal nerve compression, diabetic neuropathy, or spinal disc issues—it forces individuals to drag their toes or lift their knee unnaturally high while walking (steppage gait).

Common Symptoms

Inability to lift the front of the foot while stepping forward · Frequent tripping over low obstacles or carpet edges · High-stepping walking pattern (lifting the knee higher to avoid dragging toes) · Slapping noise as the foot hits the floor when walking · Numbness or tingling along the top of the foot and toes

Our Treatment Approach

Neurological & motor strength evaluation → targeted physical therapy & nerve stimulation → prescription of custom Ankle-Foot Orthoses (AFO braces) to hold the foot at a functional angle → surgical nerve decompression or tendon transfer for permanent mechanical restoration.