Foot drop is a nerve problem that makes it hard to lift the front part of the foot when walking. It may cause a person to shuffle the foot on the ground or lift the whole foot higher than usual when walking.
Foot drop occurs because of muscles that are weak or can't move. This can happen because of injury or illness, such as brain disorders that cause muscle problems. Health problems that can cause foot drop include:
- Multiple sclerosis.
- Diabetes.
- Stroke.
- Cerebral palsy.
- ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease).
- Back problems such as spinal stenosis.
- Muscular dystrophy.
Treatment depends on the cause. If foot drop is caused by an injury or a health problem that can be treated, the person may be able to walk normally. In some cases, exercises can help strengthen leg muscles that lift the foot. Leg braces or other types of support also can help a person walk more easily.
| By | Healthwise Staff |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine |
| Last Revised | October 28, 2010 |
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