Causes of Foot Drop
The causes of foot drop are generally related to problems with the nerves, muscles, or brain pathways that control movement in the lower leg. Foot drop is often due to injury or compression of the peroneal nerve, which controls the muscles responsible for lifting the foot.
Peroneal Nerve Damage
The common peroneal nerve runs down the outer part of the knee and controls the muscles that lift the foot and toes
It is particularly vulnerable to injury or compression because it lies close to the surface
Causes include:
Knee or leg trauma, such as fractures or surgery
Prolonged leg crossing or squatting
Wearing tight casts or braces around the knee or upper leg
Rapid weight loss, which may reduce protective fat around the nerve
Nerve Root Compression
Conditions affecting the spine, such as slipped discs or spinal stenosis, can compress nerve roots in the lower back
This may interrupt the signals sent to the foot muscles and result in foot drop
Back pain or sciatica may be present alongside foot weakness
Neurological Conditions
Diseases that affect the brain or spinal cord can disrupt movement control:
Stroke
Multiple sclerosis (MS)
Cerebral palsy
Motor neurone disease (ALS)
In these cases, foot drop may be part of a broader pattern of weakness or spasticity.
Muscle Disorders
Certain muscular dystrophies or inherited muscle conditions may weaken the lower leg muscles
These are less common but can cause foot drop gradually over time
Other Causes
Diabetes, which can damage peripheral nerves (diabetic neuropathy)
Tumours or cysts compressing nerves in the spine or leg
Inflammatory diseases, such as Guillain-Barré syndrome or vasculitis
Causes of Foot Drop
Identifying the cause of foot drop is essential for proper treatment. While some cases resolve with time and therapy, others may require surgery or long-term management strategies.
[Next: Symptoms of Foot Drop →]
