Foot drop is a condition in which a person has difficulty lifting the front part of the foot, often caused by nerve injury, muscle weakness, or neurological disorders such as stroke or neuropathy. It may look like the foot drags while walking, and many individuals develop a high-stepping gait to avoid tripping. Foot drop can feel awkward, tiring, or unstable, and some people notice numbness or tingling along the shin or top of the foot. Foot drop is a symptom rather than a standalone diagnosis, meaning the underlying cause must be identified for proper treatment. A podiatrist can begin by evaluating muscle strength, nerve function, and gait patterns to pinpoint the source of the problem. Treatment options may include bracing to support the foot, custom orthotics, or strategies to improve balance and mobility. Early intervention helps reduce long-term complications and improves confidence while walking. If you notice changes in your walking pattern or difficulty lifting your foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Comprehensive Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
- Bunions
- Hammertoes
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Bone Spurs
- Corns
- Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
- Ingrown Toenails
- Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
- Flat Feet
- Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
- And more
Diagnosis
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Lehigh Ave and Nazareth Hospital in Philadelphia, Collegeville Darby, and Langhorne, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
