What causes drop foot most often?

Peroneal nerve compression and herniated discs are the two most common causes we see. Stroke and diabetic neuropathy are next, especially in older patients.

Can drop foot be cured?

Sometimes. If the underlying cause is treatable, such as a herniated disc, peroneal nerve compression that resolves, or a nerve injury that heals, drop foot can fully resolve. For permanent nerve damage, drop foot is usually managed long-term rather than cured.

Will I always need a brace?

That depends on the cause and how the nerve recovers. Patients with reversible causes often use a brace temporarily during recovery and then transition out of it. Patients with permanent nerve damage typically wear an AFO long-term.

What is the difference between an AFO and a custom orthotic?

An AFO supports the ankle and lifts the foot. A custom orthotic supports the inside of the foot. Many drop foot patients wear both together because each does a different job.

Does Medicare cover AFO bracing for drop foot?

Yes, in most cases. Medicare covers medically necessary AFO bracing for drop foot, along with related physical therapy. We can verify your specific coverage when you call.

Drop Foot Treatment in Goodyear, AZ

Drop foot describes when the muscles that lift your foot aren’t working, so you can’t pick your foot up while you walk. It often leads to tripping or dragging your foot. It is typically related to a nerve problem that needs proper evaluation. Dr Udall takes special interest in helping those with drop foot, and there’s just not a lot of providers and doctors out there who have enough experience or understanding about what to do to help you. At Foot Envy, we provide education, and treatments like AFO bracing and custom orthotics for safer walking and to prevent falls. Dr. Craig Udall, DPM is the West Valley's specialist in lower-extremity biomechanics and he can perform a proper evaluation and provide you with the information you need.

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What Is Drop Foot?

Drop foot, sometimes called foot drop, is the inability to lift the front part of your foot when you walk. The toes catch on the ground. The foot slaps down with each step instead of rolling smoothly. To compensate, people with drop foot tend to lift the affected leg higher than normal, a walking pattern called steppage gait.

Trouble Walking or Keeping Your Balance?

Do you have trouble walking? Do you have balance problems? Do you stumble, catch your toes, or trip while you walk? Does your foot slap the ground, or do you find yourself lifting your foot up with your hip when you walk? Do you have to think about your steps to make sure you don't fall?

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Thorough, Expert Gait and Balance Evaluation

If you have balance problems or gait issues, book an appointment with Dr Udall so he can help you evaluate and determine the cause of your problem, and what can be done to help.Lots of people have these questions and don't know who to talk to about them. Dr Udall is an expert at gait evaluation and evaluating muscle strength in the lower extremity. You’ll understand why an AFO brace might be the treatment option that helps you walk in a more normal way.

Have you been diagnosed with Drop foot?

Dr Udall is the Valley's drop foot doctor!

If you have been diagnosed with drop foot but aren't using a brace; or if you have a brace but aren't completely satisfied with it, make an appointment to see Dr Udall so he can help you get the proper one. As a biomechanical expert, Dr Udall has found a special niche by helping those with drop foot get more stability and support with the right brace. He has spent the time and effort finding the proper drop foot AFO that truly makes a difference. Not all braces are created equally. You want a brace that has been researched and is anatomically accurate and is superior to provide maximum support. You shouldn't have to think about your gait. Call to make an appointment so you can try on the best drop foot brace available and walk better.

Book Your Drop Foot Evaluation Today

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Frequently Asked Questions About Drop Foot

What causes drop foot most often?
There are many causes of drop foot, and they are mostly nerve related. Come see Dr Udall for an evaluation of what is causing your drop foot.
Can drop foot be cured?
Sometimes drop foot is not easily explained. In those cases, it’s hard to know if it’ll improve or not. When there’s permanent nerve damage, drop foot is usually managed long-term rather than cured. The longer you’ve had the problem, the least likely it is to improve. The most important thing is understanding what’s going on, and what we can do to help you walk better.
Will I always need a brace?
That depends on the cause and how the nerve recovers. Patients with reversible causes often use a brace temporarily during recovery and then transition out of it. Patients with permanent nerve damage typically wear an AFO long-term.
What is the difference between an AFO and a custom orthotic?
An AFO supports the ankle and lifts the foot. A custom orthotic supports the inside of the foot. Many drop foot patients wear both together because each does a different job.
Are there exercises that help drop foot?
Yes there are. You can try to strengthen the muscles as much as you can, and for as long as you want. You’ll realize if the muscles are not improving or responding to the exercises. Typically you’ll work with physical therapy for a tailored program and see if it helps.
Do all flat feet need treatment?
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