What Is the Difference Between Drop Foot & Tibial Flat Foot Deformity?

Drop foot and tibial flat foot deformity are two conditions affecting the ability to walk with a normal gait. While tibial flat foot deformity is a distinct syndrome, drop foot appears as a symptom of other ailments.

Drop Foot

• Drop foot---also called foot drop---occurs when paralysis or weakness in the muscles of the lower leg make it difficult to raise the front part of the foot, according to the Mayo Clinic. Underlying causes for the condition may include neurological, anatomical or muscular factors.

Tibial Flat Foot Deformity

• Tibial flat foot deformity---also called adult-acquired flat foot---occurs when the tendon running from the calf muscle to the arch of the foot sustains some form of injury, according to University of Washington Medicine. Potential causes include overstretching and inflammation.

Drop Foot Disorders

• The Mayo Clinic cites specific potential causes of drop foot that include diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage), muscular dystrophy, abnormal nerve pressure, multiple sclerosis, stroke, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig's disease) and surgical complications.

Tibial Flat Foot Treatment

• Without prompt treatment, tibial flat foot can cause severe impairment, UW Medicine reports. Treatment options include immobilization, physical therapy and surgery.

Drop Foot Treatment

• Treatment options for drop foot include physical therapy, use of splints or braces, electrical nerve stimulation and surgery, the Mayo Clinic reports.