Foot drop: Explaining the causes, characteristics and treatment

Abstract

Foot drop is the inability to lift the foot at the ankle. It is a common symptom in neurological conditions including stroke and multiple sclerosis, but can also be a result of orthopaedic trauma. Health professionals treating these patients need to minimize further loss of range of movement at the ankle and prevent the negative impact that foot drop has on gait. The most effective forms of treatment include the provision of orthotics and the use of functional electrical stimulation.