Foot drop describes difficulty lifting the front of the foot during walking. This can result in the toes catching the ground, a higher stepping pattern, reduced stability and an increased risk of trips and falls.
There are many possible causes, including stroke, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, nerve injuries and neurological conditions such as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease.
Importantly, foot drop doesn’t look the same in everyone — and neither should the solution.
An individual assessment is essential to understand:
👣 How the foot and ankle are moving
🦵 Strength, tone and joint position
🚶 How the person is walking
⚖️ Balance and stability
👟 Footwear and lifestyle requirements
🎯 Most importantly — what the person wants to achieve
An appropriate orthotic solution, such as an AFO or dynamic/carbon-fibre device, may help improve foot clearance, stability and efficiency of walking. For some people, the biggest goal isn’t simply walking better — it’s being able to return to work, play with their children, exercise, get outdoors or feel confident walking independently.
At LEWis BRAND Orthotics, we believe orthotic care should be about much more than the device itself.
It’s about understanding the person, their goals and their life — and finding the right solution to help them take their next step. 💙
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of foot drop, professional assessment can help identify the most appropriate options.
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