Foot Drop Diagnosis

When diagnosing foot drop, doctors typically rely on a 0-5 foot mobility threshold, with 0 referring to complete paralysis and 5 signifying complete foot mobility.

As there are many potential causes of drop foot, a doctor must first pinpoint its underlying source.

Diagnosing Causes of Drop Foot

A typical dropped foot diagnostic process includes:

• A patient history, involving an understanding of the specific foot drop symptoms, past illnesses, and use of any medications
• A physical exam, including an examination of the visual appearance and altered behavior of the affected foot and leg
• Possible additional diagnostic tests, such as:
  • Imaging studies to examine the surrounding areas of damaged nerves (e.g. with an MRI scan)
  • Electrodiagnostic studies (EMG/NCS) to distinguish between the different types of nerve damage
  • A blood analysis for a possible metabolic cause like diabetes, alcoholism, or toxins
  • Fasting blood sugar, hemoglobin, and nitrogen and creatinine tests.

Who Diagnoses Foot Drop?

Foot drop can be diagnosed by a many types of physicians. If the lower back is suspected as a cause, a complete workup by a spine specialist, such as a physiatrist, orthopedic spine surgeon or neurosurgeon, may be advisable.

Once a cause is determined, various foot drop treatments may be implemented depending on the specific patient’s condition.

• Article written By:
• Dr. Grant Cooper, MD

August 17, 2009

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