Foot Drop Physiotherapy in Indirapuram

Common causes

Compression of the peroneal nerve near the outer knee (from crossing legs, prolonged squatting, tight casts or weight loss), nerve root compression from a disc in the lower back, stroke, multiple sclerosis, diabetic neuropathy and some muscle conditions.

Sudden foot drop with back pain and bladder changes needs emergency care, as it may indicate cauda equina syndrome.

How it affects walking

People with foot drop often lift the knee higher than normal to clear the toes, sometimes called a steppage gait, or swing the leg out to the side. Tripping and falls are common.

Treatment

An ankle-foot orthosis (AFO), a lightweight splint that holds the foot up, improves walking safety immediately. Electrical stimulation devices that activate the muscles during walking help some people.

Rehab depends on cause. For nerve compression, removing the pressure is key, with strengthening as the nerve recovers. For neurological causes, gait training, balance and strength work are central.

Exercises often used for Foot Drop

These are exercises our physiotherapists commonly include. Which ones suit you, how many and in what order depends on your assessment and stage of recovery.

All neurological rehabilitation exercises

Frequently asked questions