Understanding drop foot
Drop foot affects foot mobility. People with this condition cannot lift the front of the foot and have difficultymovingnormally.
People with drop foot often drag their toes on the ground and use the hip and thigh muscles to lift the leg and avoid tripping.
At Laboratoire Orthopédique Jérôme Marier, our specialists offer solutions designed to improve mobility for people living with drop foot.
Symptoms of drop foot
Drop foot involves weakness in the muscles that lift the foot, which can lead to fatigue and a compensating gait. Lower-back pain related to sciatic nerve compression may occur. Depending on the cause, the condition may be temporary or permanent.
Causes of drop foot syndrome
Drop foot is itself a symptom of a neurological, muscular or anatomical disorder. It may occur after a stroke or be caused by one of the following conditions:
Are you experiencing pain?
Make an appointment for a consultation at Laboratoire Orthopédique.
Treatments for drop foot
Drop foot has several possible causes and may require different treatments to reduce its effects.
An ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) is the most common treatment. It supports ankle movement and helps improve mobility. At Laboratoire Orthopédique, we offer a handmade custom ankle-foot orthosis as well as theTurbomed XTERN orthosis. The Turbomed XTERN orthosis helps people with drop foot walk, run and hike more independently.
The RAMQ also offers a support program for devices that compensate for a physical disability. Under certain conditions, the RAMQ covers the purchase, replacement and repair costs of this orthosis.
Physiotherapy may also be recommended to strengthen the muscles and stimulate the ankle joint. Finally, wearing orthopedic shoes provides better support for the foot and ankle.
Are you experiencing pain?
Make an appointment for a consultation at Laboratoire Orthopédique.