Focusing on foot drop: Results from a patient survey and clinical examination

Epidemiological data concerning the symptom 'foot drop' are scarce in the literature. However, everyday practice shows that this symptom is frequent, and that patients who suffer from it are significantly disabled.

A special 'foot-drop consulting hour' to examine and advise people with foot drop was founded. Over 18 months we collected data from 65 patients who consulted us: this included patient-related items, diagnoses and treatment.

People of all ages were affected by foot drop. Left and right sides were affected with equal frequency. Spinal lumbar nerve root damage and peroneal nerve compression were the most frequent causes, followed by polyneuropathy and nerve trauma. In 18% of patients more than one pathological condition was found that might have led to foot drop. In 14% no reason could be determined. 45% of patients with foot drop subsequently received surgical treatment.

Epidemiological data and details of patients affected by foot drop can help to raise awareness of this frequent symptom and to suggest specific therapy.