Early Foot Drop Symptoms

Foot drop is a characterized by the inability to lift the front part of the foot. Depending on the underlying cause, paralysis of the foot can be temporary; however, it can also be permanent. Foot drop is caused by damage to the leg muscle or nerve damage associated with the leg or foot. Additionally, some muscle and nerve disorders are responsible for foot drop.

Symptoms

• Early symptoms of foot drop may include numbness, pain or weakness in the foot. Additionally, lifting the front part of you foot may seem impossible.

Floppy Foot

• As the condition worsens, and the affected muscle or nerve continues to deteriorate, you may notice that you foot flops down onto the floor as you walk.

Stepping Gait

• Deterioration of the muscles or nerves can continue and may cause a dragging of the foot and stepping gait (high rising thigh while walking).

Dragging of the Foot

• Foot drop may be caused by an injury to the leg muscle. Individuals with muscular dystrophy, may experience foot drop as the disease progresses. Typically, dragging of the foot is the first symptom for individuals with muscular dystrophy.

Paralysis

• Individuals with spinal cord nerve damage, or brain disorder may experience a permanent paralysis.