Symptoms of Foot Drop
The symptoms of foot drop are typically easy to recognise and affect how a person walks. Foot drop causes difficulty lifting the front part of the foot, leading to compensatory movements and instability. Depending on the underlying cause, symptoms may come on suddenly or develop gradually over time.
Gait Abnormalities
The most obvious symptom is a high-stepping gait, also known as a steppage gait
Individuals lift their knees unusually high to prevent the toes from dragging
When walking quickly or climbing stairs, this gait becomes more pronounced
In some cases, the foot may slap down onto the floor after each step, due to lack of muscle control
Foot and Toe Weakness
Difficulty raising the foot or toes (dorsiflexion)
Trouble standing on the heel of the affected foot
Weakness may worsen with prolonged walking or fatigue
Patients may also trip frequently, especially when walking barefoot or on uneven surfaces
Numbness or Tingling
Some individuals experience numbness, tingling, or a “pins and needles” sensation along the outer shin or top of the foot
These are signs of nerve involvement, especially when the peroneal nerve is compressed
Muscle Wasting
Over time, the muscles in the front of the lower leg may become visibly smaller (atrophied) if the condition persists without treatment
This is more common in chronic or untreated cases
Bilateral vs. Unilateral Symptoms
Foot drop usually affects one side (unilateral), but in rare cases—such as in certain neurological or muscular diseases—it can occur in both feet
Associated Symptoms
Depending on the cause, other symptoms may include:
Back pain or radiating leg pain (if the problem originates in the spine)
Balance issues or instability, particularly in the dark or on stairs
Spasticity or stiffness in the leg muscles in neurological conditions
Symptoms of Foot Drop
Recognising the symptoms of foot drop early allows for prompt diagnosis and tailored treatment. This helps prevent falls, joint damage, and further muscle weakening.
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