Foot Drop Anyone?

Does anyone out there have foot drop besides me??

[bellypooper]

    you are not alone!!! I have dropfoot in both feet but worse in my right.wear an AFO.hate it. also had to have toes amputated on that foot witch makes it even worse. been looking to share stories and get support for this for over a year now. hope we can talk..
      take care. jan

[FMDAdvocate]

Thank you for responding Jan. I have searched for a year myself looking for foot drop support network. You are absolutely right, I hate my AFO too. I stopped using the plastic AFO and bought a device called Ossur Foot-Up Drop Foot Brace. I found this on www.braceshop.com
It's certainly not perfect, and my poor atrophied leg gets really tired lifting but still like it better than the plastic one. I lost my foot due to a bone fragment from a disc. I didn't even have back pain. I was just standing in line at the grocery store and suddenly didn't feel my foot any longer. I had emergency back surgery 13 months ago, but it didn't help bring back dorsiflexion. What caused your foot drop? Thank you so much for writing,

[bellypooper]

  
hi.so happy to find someone dealing with drop foot. I had emergency surgery in 2008 for bowl obstuction.in icu for 2 months died 3 times that christmas,   ended up with a stoma[ hence my screen name] was very septic,causing dry gangarine in feet.they didn't keep those air things on my legs witch I believe caused my drop foot. originally they wanted to amputate my leg at the knee, but my husband and kids said no. I've since had my toes amputated so my balance is real bad. have sever neurapathy in both feet. was on lyrica for that but gained weight for that witch made more pain in foot.now use sybalta.helps some. always have pain in foot take vicoden but it only eases the pain.  
do you have any movement in your ankle? I have very little,walk with can when brace is on but use walker when don't.  I'll tell you I'm fighting ovarion cancer and dealing with my stoma but what ***** the most is my feet.   I'll be waiting to here from you. tell me about yourself.  .   take care.jan

[FMDAdvocate]

Thank you for sharing your story. God Bless you for dealing with too many health issues.
I tried Cymbalta in the past for depression, and gained alot of weight. I think this is why they don't even bother to offer me Lyrica. It is challenging enough to control my weight not being able to walk. If I look at one more magazine in the check out line about walk away your weight then I am going to scream! I am a RN, worked 25+ years. In 2008 I had a carotid dissection (tearing of the artery) this caused a stroke. I had the blood thinning medicine tpa
and stents. As if that weren't enough worry.. 13 months ago, out of no where, again standing in grocery check out line and couldn't feel my foot. Went to ER, no stroke but had a disc bone fragment and damaged a nerve in my back, hence foot drop.

[bellypooper]

I know what you mean I want to scream to.   can you not walk at all? can you drive?   i can walk with cane put trip alot, i try to move as much as i can.   I can't drive and i really hate that. but stupid foot won't bend enough.i realllyy miss working. I worked in a drycleaners for many years[manager] was a work aholic.lol really miss my custumers and coworkers.  do you have kids? I have 2 girls[grown] and 7 grandkids. benn married 33 yrs. they are the reason i fight the fight.   where do you live? I live in toledo ohio.    what do you do for fun?

[FMDAdvocate]

Hi, sorry for the delay in responding. Yes, I want to scream too! Talk about frustration but I remind myself yes, I am upright and can walk/drive. I can press my foot down and side to side just not able to dorsiflex(lift up).. If I try to walk barefoot then easily roll over my toes, and as you know that's very painful. Didn't take long to break the first toe either. I use a cane when tired. I have the horrible plastic AFO but changed to a brace that velcro's around my ankle then attaches to my tennis shoe. Do you know what I mean? How are you feeling?

[GrinReaper]

Hello all glad to see this I was looking for a foot drop forum but they were all outdated, I have foot drop and neuropathy in both feet, I had H1N1 and was in a coma for 5 months, lost all my muscle tone had to relearn to walk again ect, but anyway thru all that I developed the foot drop as well as a pressure ulcer on my left heal, a year later its almost healed...FMD I have those velcro things I belive Xstraps, they work well, I was wondering has anyone tried the shapeups with their rolling motion they look as tho they would help? I've read a couple post that say yes but you never know how realiable those are, I too have a lil movement in right foot n toes, none in left and to "belly" Im in ohio too just the other end down south lol. welp any questions ask, hope yall are still here :)

[bellypooper]

   hello and wecome,its good to know i'm not alone in wanting a forum on drop foot. i also have neurapathy.no felling in toes on left foot,and tho toes are amputated on right food still have it in that foot to.worse in mornings,can't stand the pain.think i'l check into x straps you both have mentioned. do you have to be fitted for them? i was thinking them shape ups would be good to. are you able to drive? i think i'm gonna try driving with my left foot this summer,just in the neiborhood,no main streets to start. i hate not working and driving. can you flex your foot at all? i can move side to side but not up or down.
      fmd, hope all is well with you.good news chemo pills seem to be working,ca125 down to 16.sure don't want to go thru reg.chemo again.so ready for warm weather,sick and bored from being stuck in house all winter.can atleast go to park and walk short distance till i get to tired then sit and people watch and dog watch.
    hope to here from you both soon.
  warm thoughts,jan

[FMDAdvocate]

I apologize for the delay in responding. I've been busy traveling to Cleveland and now Ann Arbor twice in attempt to have a custom AFO(brace) made to help with my foot drop. The one I got in Jacksonville, FL is rigid and I can't walk up stairs when wearing. The new one will be hinged at the ankle. The xstraps helped me but I've found the rigid brace supports my foot better. When my foot drops just a little bit the pain becomes untolerable. If I can keep it straight much better. I can't stand the night splint so sleep with my foot against a foot board.
I can only tolerate 600mg Gabapentin. If I try to increase dose I am a zombie. Anyone else with this problem and/or suggestions?

[lphili]

Hi-  I had foot drop for 20 years, due to  a tumor growing from within the pereneal nerve.  When they removed it they severed that nerve and I was left with complete L. footdrop.  I used various AFO's during those years and unfortunately there was never a terrific one, although I must say I ran everyday and ran marathons wearing those AFO's.  The X-strap was a joke seeing the severity of my footdrop. It was my way of rebelling against that disability.  After tripping down a flight of stairs while I wasn't wearing my brace I broke my foot severely.  While talking to the doctor about my years of frustration he suggested a deep tendon transfer.  It was a miracle it worked!  After all those many years of wearing a hot AFO's all summer (wearing pants ALL the time to hide my brace), wearing Doc Marten boots with shorts, bleeding blisters I am walking with no problem now.  It took a while to retrain myself to walk correctly.  I am still in awe of my leg and am grateful daily.  Please look into this surgery.  It changed my life.  I still run everyday, but now I wear shorts and great sandals all summer.  

[FMDAdvocate]

Hi-thank you for sharing. You are an amazing success after 20 years! So much of what you said are my thoughts too. The first 3 months after the initial foot drop I refused to wear anything. Can you imagine with complete drop? dumb. Then I progressed to the Lift-Up strap. I've had many falls and fortunately have only broken one toe. I had to move on to the rigid, toe off AFO. I can't stand because I can't go up stairs or stand up from squatting on floor.  I too am so frustrated by living in Florida and can't wear flip flops or other cute sandals. I have finally given in to wearing a dress to church with my AFO but can hardly stand up after kneeling to pray. Sadly, I was just evaluated by an orthopedic dr who says I am not a canidate for muscle/tendon transfer because my injury was at the L5 nerve root. I do not have inversion(moving inward of the foot) which is needed to the tendon needed to move to the anterior tibialis.  

[maestro1959]

I have bi-lateral footdrop as a result of Multiple Sclerosis.  I was diagnosed one year ago.  I was assaulted by a student while teaching.  He threw me head first into a wall attempting to retrieve his cell phone which I had taken because he was texting in class.  I suffered a closed head injury, and developed the footdrop very early on.  This was along with other neurological symptoms.  A brain MRI was ordered because of severe headaches, and many lesions were discovered prompting the MS diagnosis.  My doctor believes the MS was there and dorment, and the head trauma triggered the disease.

I wore "off-the-shelf" AFO's ordered by my physical therapist for a while, but as the weakness became worse I was fitted with custom-molded, ankle-jointed AFO's.  The statement about them being hot in the summer is an understatement.  They are dreadful.  My physical therapist wanted them to fit me with the carbon-fiber ones, but my health insurance would not approve them.  There was only a $200 difference in the cost, but they would not relent.

I am in a wheelchair almost full-time now due to weakness from the MS.  When I know I am going to be out of the house, and therefore in my chair I do not wear the AFO's.  I keep a folding cane in my chair's backpack in case I am forced to walk a short distance.  I have actually encountered handicap restrooms that are too small for my wheelchair.  I just find that impossible to believe.

I still have full feelling in both feet.  So, I understand about the pain in catching a toe.  I have fallen many times.  That was the reason for my PT ordering me the first set.  I bruised my shoulder, and have suffered cuts by falling on furniture, but never needed stitches nor have I broken any bones.  I live alone, and try to be as safe as possible.  My friends comment on how worried they are about that.

Do any of you drive a vehicle with hand controls?  I was in a car accident about 3 weeks ago.  My car stalled as I approached a red light, and I did not have the strength to stop it without the power brakes.  Now, I have to consider having hand controls on my car when it is repaired.  Are there any requirements for contacting the department of motor vehicles or anyone like that?  I have Googled and can not find any information that instructs me in this regard.  I would appreciate anyone who could help.

Most sincerely,
Beth

[Jfuentes33]

Hello everyone!! My name is Jessica and I live in Florida about 4 months ago I slipped and fell at work, I have torn all of my ligaments, broke my Fibula, stretched all my veins and nerves, causing a foot drop.  It's been really hard for me to deal with it but I am slowly overcoming it, 2 months after my accident my mother passed away, so the overwhelming emotions of that and my foot not being normal sent me into overdrive.  I now have my AFO and I love it and hate it at the same time.  I also have to wear a special knee brace because of the ligament tears.  I am trying to find a way to wear sandals or nicer shoes for work and going out, any suggestions?  I am so glad that I found a support group that is still active and up to date.

~*Jessie*~

[FMDAdvocate]

I'm sorry didn't see your August post until today. You must be dealing with a lot of emotions starting with being assaulted. That alone is awful enough but to throw in headaches, foot drop and a diagnosis like MS that must be overwhelming. I have heard about something called RSD. This happened to a lady who didn't keep her dropped foot supported. Please be careful if your leg is dangling while in the wheel chair with the AFO off. You may want to ask your doctor about this and share with us since I am not an expert. I am still driving while wearing the AFO on my right foot. It's a bit challenging but I can manage. Google your state and Motor Vehicle Dept. to find info on driving with hand device. A social worker from your rehab facility might be able to help too. Keep the faith. Lisa

[FMDAdvocate]

I enjoyed your comments or should say appreciated remarks about rebelling against foot drop by only wearing the x-strap. I still use mine about 50% of the time. Partly because it is not so hot but also because I can ride my bicycle with it on. And, yes I can't wait for cold weather to wear my boots rather than the AFO. I wear a wedge heel because it helps me compensate for the drop. I saw an orthopedic doc recently to be evaluated for the muscle tendon transfer. Unfortunately, I am not a candidate because I also cannot move my foot inward(inversion).
This would be the tendon moved to the front of the leg so surgery would not work in my case. But, I am just thrilled to hear it has worked for you! That makes my day. Thank you for sharing.

[FMDAdvocate]

I'm sorry for the loss of your mother, and your fall. I've heard foot drop's occuring due to an injury like your's have a high % of recovery. Living in Florida too I understand your shoe search. I have one paid of wedge heel, Gladiator style (wrap around the ankel) sandal which I wear for a special occasion. I haven't found any sandal for an AFO. I do have black leather, and cream leather shoes from ECCO which aren't the most stylish but better than the medical shoes. Both pairs lace up the front and work with the AFO.

[FMDAdvocate]

I just took your survey. Thanks for taking an interest in those of us dealing with foot drop.
It's nice to know someone is interested in improving the AFO.

[Melli07]

    I also have foot drop. I had an accident at work where I fell, I had a complete tear of my LCL and a small tear in my ACL in my right knee. Some where in there I pinched or did something to the Peroneal nerve. Per my Doc, in surgery he "cleaned" up the nerve and removed scar tissue. This all happened in April. I have been using an AFO, that I found on the Brace shop website that my PT recommended. I understand that my foot drop may not be as serious as most of you on here as mine is supposed to heal, I have had this for six months now, but I wanted you all to know you are not alone. And, I was excited to finally find an active discussion regarding this issue!

FMD, I have to ask, how are you driving?  I have no Dorsiflexion but I can push my foot down and I can move my foot to the right, inward, but I cannot push my foot outward. My Doc says I can't drive, I just want to know how you do it. :)    

[joshgrobanrox]

Well, add another foot drop person to this group. I was diagnosed a few weeks ago, but have been dealing with foot drop since January, Last August I got really sick and went into the ER expecting to come out with some antibiotics and to feel better in a few days. Imagine my shock when I was admitted to the hospital and told I have End Stage Renal Disease. Within in last year I have started dialysis had a virual infection and neuropatyhy and now foot drop. Any question as to why I get depressed sometimes. I have neuropathy in both feet, but as of right now only foot drop in the right. I have NO feeling in either set of toes, but can move my left foot. my right foot is basically useless except for the ability to move it from side to side. Do you think I would be a candidate for the tendon surgery? What doctor would I talk to about it? Neurologist?Physical Therapy?Orthopedist?Famly? Sorry for all the questions, I am just new to this all. Thanks

[becca535]

Hi there- I am new to this forum, but have had complete foot drop in my right foot after being injured at work and having emergency back surgery in January, 2008.  I was out of work for a couple of month, but desperate to return.  I couldn't drive safely, so I took driving lessons with hand controls and had my car outfitted with them.  I had to get a special license, or else I wouldn't be covered by my insurance.  It was worth it, and frankly it is fun to drive with the "suicide knob!"  I don't wear an AFO although I have gone through two plastic ones and two made by Ossur.  The plastic ones bent after a while and so didn't lift my foot, and the ones by Ossur were just uncomfortable/painful after time.  I wear boots in the fall and winter and they provide enough structure that I don't trip if I am careful.  In the spring and summer I just have to be extra careful not to trip in flats, sandals, sneakers.  I considered surgery to correct the foot drop, but since I am pain free now, I don't want to risk a surgery that might not work and could cause me pain.  I had enough pain with my back and when the muscle on my calf was deteriorating that I am not wanting to welcome pain back into my life.  I hope your other health conditions are soon alleviated.  Best of luck.

[Tab2004]

Hi, looks like I'm the first to post in months, but this is the first thread I've seen that mentions similar problems to what I'm experiencing. I REALLY hope someone will converse with me, I feel very isolated :-( Ok here are my issues: I am 28, when I was 26 I was attacked and am very lucky to have survived, but feel rather unlucky with all the subsequent health problems. Had 2 feet of large intestine removed due to a ruptured colon, but here us what bothers me the most: have severe drop foot on right foot, all 10 toes removed, ulcers just won't heal and have had 8 foot surgeries. My right foot constantly points down making walking down stairs & up hills almost impossible. Had a z-plasty, I think just made things worse. After over 2 years I am TIRED of all the surgeries, the drop foot and the PAIN! Have a wonderful daughter who needs a better Mommy, but I am stuck in bed from pain & exhaustion every day. I really want my right foot completely amputated. Does anyone know of anyone having a foot with foot drop amputated? Or just anyone with an amputated foot? I want to know the pros/cons of going thus route. Thank you for reading my lengthy thread & God bless you in dealing with your own situation :-)

[mysstic]

Terrible story, you're so young, this shouldn't have happened to you. I hope your attacker will be caught and should get him the same "treatment" as you have!
My husband has a foot drop for about 3 years, don't know the cause. He had no accident, nor injuries.
xrays, MRI didn't show anything. He went a few times to see a neurologist, but he couldn't make much out of it either. After hubby decided not to go for any further checks, so no idea what causing it.
He wears a foot brace, but he will go and check out that foot up thing which might be more comfortable.
The foot drop is pretty much the same ever since he developed it, didn't deteriorate, which is good.
But would be good to know if there would be something which could cure it.
He's too scared of surgery, that they could damage the nerve further.

[sthiti]

Hey hi

This is Sthiti from India..And yes u are not alone.I had an acciednt back in dec and broke my tibia followed by foot drop.Initially it was really harrashing to see your leg hanging like a ballet dancer's foot..But i am nt here to tell you how bad it is or how it affects your life....rather wiil give u a ray of hope.I have recovered from FOOT DROP without suregry in 3 months and credit goes to the physiotherapy sessions....yes...its true u can go for muscles stimulation given by phsios.Initially your foot will not respond to stimulation but eventually u wll feel the difference.All u need to hav is patience.Along with that u can also opt for few muscles strenthening exercises.Hope my post had made some differnece to your state of mind.If you need any further help feel free to ask me...will always respond you....take care...byee

[FMDAdvocate]

Hi,
Sorry it has taken me this long to reply. My foot drop is on the right. I am only able to press down. Thank God I can drive but only if wearing my AFO or boot. I did drive a sports car which was a stick. It was impossible for me to manage a clutch, brake & gas pedals. Not to mention climbing in & out so I traded for an SUV.
Is your AFO to ridge for you to manage? I know it is frustrating and it feels like no one else gets it.
Peace to you,

[FMDAdvocate]

Hi,
I'm sorry for what you've been through & ongoing pain. I asked my pain doctor about amputating my big toe. He said it would not help since the nerve injury is not actually there but my back. Its like phantom pain. My foot hurts less when supported rather than letting it just point down. If you are just sitting or lying around the house try taking a towel or sheet and tie your foot to your ankle. Sounds weird but it works. I just flew 9 hrs and had my foot tied of the plane. If you leave it down you could develop RSD which is unbearable pain. Do you take Gabapentin or Lyrica for nerve pain?  It's no cure but does help.
Prayers sent to you,

[FMDAdvocate]

Hi, thanks for the words of encouragement. My drs say give it up to 3 years. I only have 6 months left but believe miracles do happen.i I've used a electrical stimulator all this time and months of PT. Sadly, some cases do not improve but we all need hope.
Best to you!