Drop foot is a severe deformity that makes it difficult or impossible for the patient to move and position the feet, usually when walking or running. Find out how a drop foot deformity can impact your mobility and quality of life and how you can manage this condition with the help of Dr. Joseph Disabato at Virginia Foot & Ankle Surgical Associates in Charlottesville, VA.

What Is a Drop Foot Deformity?

A drop foot deformity makes it difficult for a patient to lift the front part of the foot and toes when walking. The toes instead drag across the floor with each step. It is a condition caused by having one leg shorter than the other. It is most commonly caused by nerve damage or peripheral neuropathy in the toes. In some cases, it is related to a neurological disorder. Drop foot may also be a congenital deformity that has been present since birth.

The Impact of Drop Foot on Mobility and Quality of Life

Caring for your feet with the help of a podiatrist is critical to staying active and enjoying a healthy lifestyle. Drop foot can impact your life and mobility in the following ways:

• It may cause the patient to instinctively lift their knees and legs higher than usual when they walk, making the patient self-conscious around others.
• A drop foot increases the risk of tripping and falling, which puts older patients at a higher risk of injuries.
• If the toes continually drag on the floor, they are more likely to develop wounds, cuts, or calluses.

How Is Drop Foot Treated

After a diagnosis and the likely cause of the drop foot deformity has been determined, your Charlottesville, VA, podiatrist can treat it in the following ways:

• Appointments with a physical therapist to learn how to strengthen the muscles in your toes and feet.
• Custom orthotics designed specifically for drop foot issues.
• Braces or splints to train your feet and toes to retain a natural position when walking.
• Tendon surgery.

Explore Effective Therapies for Drop Foot Deformity

You do not have to allow drop foot to remove your mobility and ability to participate in everyday activities. Get help with a drop foot deformity from Dr. Disabato at Virginia Foot & Ankle Surgical Associates in Charlottesville, VA, when you call (434) 977-8040.