Foot Drop

When your feet fail you

 Foot Drop

Foot drop is a medical condition that affects a person’s ability to lift the front part of the foot, causing difficulty in walking and dragging the foot along the ground. It results from weakness in the muscles responsible for lifting the foot or damage to the nerves controlling these muscles.

Causes of Foot Drop

  • Lumbar Disc Herniation: A slipped disc may compress the nerves controlling foot movement, leading to weakness and foot drop.
  • Lumbar Spinal Canal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal can compress the nerves responsible for lifting the foot.
  • Muscular Diseases: Conditions like muscular dystrophy can weaken the muscles and cause foot drop.
  • Other Causes: Stroke or multiple sclerosis may also result in foot drop.

Symptoms of Foot Drop

 

  • Difficulty lifting the front part of the foot, leading to dragging it while walking.
  • Unsteady gait, often characterized by lifting the knee higher than usual to avoid tripping.
  • Pain or numbness in the foot or leg.

Educational Video

For more information about foot drop, you can watch the educational video below.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Restoring Your Balance

Diagnosis of foot drop involves a detailed clinical examination, medical history, and specialized tests such as:

  • Neurological examination to assess nerve function.
  • Nerve conduction studies to measure the speed of nerve signals.
  • MRI imaging to identify underlying causes like disc herniation or spinal stenosis.

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include:

  1. Physical therapy: Strengthens foot muscles and improves walking.
  2. Assistive devices: Such as a foot brace or cane to aid movement.
  3. Surgery: In some cases, surgery is needed to repair damaged nerves or relieve pressure.

Dr. Mohamed Nawar

 With extensive experience in microscopic spine surgeries, Dr. Mohamed Nawar utilizes the latest surgical microscopes and advanced microsurgical tools available worldwide. With over 20 years of experience in microscopic spine surgery, he is among the most skilled and trusted surgeons in this field, ensuring the highest levels of safety and success for his patients.

Don’t Ignore the Problem

If you experience any symptoms of foot drop, consult your doctor immediately to identify the underlying cause and determine the most effective treatment plan.

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