Risk Factors of Foot Drop

Sometimes it’s worth taking a risk – having a picnic despite the chance for rain, or heading to the theater opening night in hopes that tickets won’t be sold out. However, there are times when you shouldn’t take chances, and knowing risk factors could help you avoid major problems. This is especially true when it comes to your health, including the health of your feet, and conditions like foot drop.

Are you at risk for foot drop? This condition, also called drop foot, is characterized by an inability to pick up your foot when you step, thus forcing you to drag your toes. The source of the problem can be a nerve or muscular disorder like, polio, ALS, or multiple sclerosis (which is why it’s so important to seek treatment), but it does result from other causes as well. Knowing the risk factors of foot drop, can allow you to watch for symptoms, catch the problem early, and get the prompt treatment you need. Reference this list of risk factors to find out if foot drop could happen to you:

• Sustaining an injury to your foot affecting nerves
• Having a condition that causes nerve damage, such as diabetes, or tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Spending extended periods of time in the same position – legs crossed, squatting, or kneeling
• Wearing a leg cast that encloses the ankle and is up to your knee. This can place pressure on the peroneal nerve.
• Knowing muscular dystrophy runs in your family
• Undergoing a knee or hip replacement procedure which can sometimes result in compressed nerves.

If you recognize a risk factor and are concerned about drop foot, come in for an appointment so we can assess your foot and determine if treatment is necessary. You can contact our Bloomington, IN office by dialing (812) 333-442, or you can use our online contact form to reach us. Catch foot drop before it drags you down. If you think you are at risk, call us today!