Drop foot

Drop foot, also known as foot drop, is a term used to describe a weakness in the muscles that act to lift the foot up (towards the shin) from the ankle joint. This weakness often causes trips and falls as the foot is not lifted out of the way when the leg is passing through the swinging phase of the walking cycle.

What causes a Drop foot?

Drop foot can gradually become an issue over a prolonged period of time or it can have a sudden onset with little or no warning. Often other underlying health issues cause a drop foot but this is not always the case.

What conditions can cause a Drop foot?

There are many conditions associated with a drop foot, including;

What are the symptoms of a Drop foot?

A drop foot can sometimes cause pain on the top of the ankle or cramps in the overworking muscles. Other symptoms include:

Often individuals who develop a drop foot over a prolonged period of time adapt their walking style with a high stepping walking style (excessively bending the knee when swinging the leg through).

What treatment options do Liverpool Orthotics provide for Drop foot?

Liverpool Orthotics provide the very latest in technology and innovation when it comes to the treatment of drop foot. From custom made devices to ‘off the shelf’ we access to every available option on the market to ensure we provide the most suitable and effective orthotic solution.

SAFO - A SAFO is a device made purely from silicon. The silicon is considered to be very comfortable and can be made to match any skin tone. A SAFO is generally regarded as the most cosmetic solution to a drop foot.

Turbomed - A turbomed was originally designed to help people with drop foot return to running activities. It fits externally onto the outside of footwear, limiting skin contact so it can be considered as a comfortable solution for anyone with drop foot.

AFO (Ankle Foot Orthosis) - AFO’s are traditionally made from thermoplastic or carbon fibre and can provide an increased amount of support around the ankle and foot. This option is most commonly used to treat a drop foot that is influenced by increased muscle tone or significant deformity.

Caliper - Calipers are often considered as an old fashioned treatment option, however they still play an essential part in orthotic treatment today. A caliper fits externally to the body thus minimises skin contact so can be an effective drop foot solution for individuals who have skin issues, diabetes or oedema (swelling).

Foot up - A foot up is a simple, lightweight device that helps spring the foot up when walking. It consists of two main parts, an ankle wrap and a hook that attaches under the laces. The third part is a piece of elastic that connects the two parts together. There are many foot up devices available and they are often mis prescribed. A foot up is only an effective solution for muscle weakness rather than paralysis or cases of increased muscle tone.

F.E.S. (Functional Electrical Stimulation) - FES is a lightweight and discreet solution to drop foot. It works by passing safe levels so electrical impulses through the skin which stimulates the ‘asleep’ muscle. This is done through a specialist electrode which wraps around the shin.

Carbon Fibre - Carbon fibre is a sleek, lightweight and strong material. Carbon fibre splints can be made extremely thin to fit inside footwear with ease. Carbon fibre splint can be designed to release energy that is stored in the carbon fibre material when it is flexed.

What is the process to receiving a Drop foot device from Liverpool Orthotics?

The first step is to arrange a consultation with one of our experienced HCPC and BAPO registered orthotists. The appointment can be arranged at home, work, school or in one of our clinics.

During the assessment the orthotist will take relevant medical history, establish your goals of treatment and carry out a full physical assessment. This assessment will consist of muscle power tests, range of movement tests and an observation of the walking cycle.

Once the best course of action has been agreed the orthotist will measure, scan or take plaster casts of the lower leg in order to order a suitable orthotic device.

A fitting appointment can then be arranged where the orthotist will ensure the orthotic device has the desired effect in the treatment of the Drop foot and that relevant wearing and caring advice if given. A complimentary review appointment is included with the provision of any orthotic device.

To arrange an appointment call Liverpool Orthotics now on 0330 088 3949, or email us at office@liverpool-orthotics.co.uk