Make a Referral
CALL US: 954-256-5301
Schedule a Consultation
Make a Referral
CALL US: 954-256-5301
Schedule a Consultation

What Causes Foot Drop?

Foot drop is not a condition, it is often a symptom of an underlying issue, most often involving nerve damage. When the nerves responsible for lifting the front of your foot are compressed, injured, or not functioning properly, the result is difficulty walking and controlling your foot.

In many cases, foot drop is linked to dysfunction of the peroneal nerve, which plays a critical role in foot movement. When this nerve is compromised, the muscles responsible for lifting the foot can weaken or stop working entirely.

Our team at The Institute goes beyond surface-level diagnosis. Using advanced imaging and specialized testing, we work with you to identify the exact source of dysfunction.

See If You Qualify For Treatment

Get Evaluated
What is Pudendal Neuralgia?

Check Your Symptoms: Are You Experiencing Any of the Following?

Foot drop can affect one or both feet and often changes the way you walk. Patients often experience:

  • Difficulty lifting the front of your foot
  • A “steppage gait” (lifting your leg higher to avoid dragging your foot)
  • Numbness in the foot
  • Tingling in the leg
  • Weakness or heaviness in the leg or foot

If any of these sound familiar, your pain may be nerve-related and treatable.



Comprehensive Treatment Options for Foot Drop

Treatment for foot drop depends on the underlying cause. If you’ve already tried conservative options without success, surgical intervention may offer a path forward.
Non-Invasive Treatments
Muscle or Tendon Transfer
Nerve Decompression Surgery
Nerve Grafting, Repair, or Transfer

Early-stage care may include:

  • Bracing or splints to support foot positioning

  • Physical therapy to strengthen the surrounding muscles

  • Electrical stimulation to activate weakened nerves

While these approaches can help manage symptoms, they often do not address the root cause, especially when nerve damage is involved.

When the muscles responsible for lifting your foot are no longer functioning, a muscle or tendon transfer can restore active movement. This procedure repositions a healthy tendon to take over the role of the damaged one, allowing you to lift your foot more naturally. The goal is to improve walking mechanics, stability, and overall mobility.

If a compressed nerve is preventing proper foot movement, nerve decompression surgery can relieve the pressure and restore nerve function. By carefully releasing the nerve from surrounding structures, this procedure can improve strength, reduce pain, and prevent further damage. In many cases, early intervention leads to better functional recovery.

When a nerve is severely damaged, reconstruction may be required to restore communication between the brain and muscles. This can involve repairing the nerve directly, grafting a segment of healthy nerve, or transferring a nearby functioning nerve to reanimate the affected area. These advanced techniques are designed to rebuild function at the source, helping patients regain control and movement over time.

Find Out If You’re Eligible for Foot Drop Treatment in Florida
Schedule an Evaluation

See How We’re Changing Lives, One Patient at a Time

Miracle Recovery: Patric Defies Odds After Car Crash and Foot Drop Injury
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“Dr Lakhiani and his staff are excellent. I have very high praise for them.”

What Are the Benefits of Foot Drop Surgery?

Improved balance and stability while walking copy
Improved balance and stability while walking
Increased independence in daily activities copy
Increased independence in daily activities
Reduced risk of trips and falls copy
Reduced risk of trips and falls
Restoration of natural walking mechanics copy
Restoration of natural walking mechanics
Relief from nerve-related discomfort copy
Relief from nerve-related discomfort
Renewed confidence and quality of life copy
Renewed confidence and quality of life

Am I a Candidate for Foot Drop Surgery?

You may be a strong candidate if you:

  • Have persistent foot drop despite braces or therapy

  • Have been diagnosed with nerve injury or compression

  • Experience worsening weakness or mobility limitations

  • Have foot drop following surgery, trauma, or neurological conditions

  • Have been told your condition is “untreatable” or unclear

A comprehensive evaluation at The Institute can determine whether nerve reconstruction is right for you.

Get Qualified
ARSA - IoF - Foot Drop - Am I a candidate copy
ARSA - IoF - Foot Drop - Understanding the root cause copy

Understanding the Root Causes of Foot Drop

Foot drop can develop from a range of underlying conditions, including:

  • Bone growths or tumors: Can compress nerves in the spine or knee

  • Muscle disorders: Including muscular dystrophy or inherited conditions

  • Neurological disorders: Such as ALS, stroke, or multiple sclerosis

  • Nerve injury: Especially involving the peroneal nerve

  • Traumatic injury: Damage to nerves, muscles, or tendons

Identifying the exact cause is critical, and often where other providers fall short.

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Considering Foot Drop Surgery? Here’s What to Expect:

Advanced Diagnostic Evaluation

Your journey begins with a highly specialized evaluation designed to uncover the exact cause of your foot drop. We use advanced imaging, electromyography (EMG), and targeted nerve studies to assess how your nerves and muscles are functioning in real time.

Personalized Surgical Plan

No two cases of foot drop are the same, which is why your treatment plan is fully customized to your condition and goals. Your surgeon will determine the most effective approach for treatment based on the location and severity of the nerve damage. 

Recovery & Functional Restoration

Recovery is a guided process focused on helping you regain strength and confidence. Depending on your procedure, nerve regeneration and muscle retraining occur gradually, often supported by physical therapy. Our team closely monitors your recovery, adjusting your care plan as needed to ensure optimal healing and functional improvement over time.

Why Trust The Institute of Florida?

Why Trust The Institute of Florida

Advanced Diagnostic Precision

We use specialized imaging and nerve testing, including EMG, to accurately identify the source of your foot drop. This precision ensures your treatment plan targets the root cause, not just the symptoms.

National Leaders in Nerve Surgery

The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction is a recognized leader in advanced nerve procedures, including decompression, grafting, and nerve transfers. Our surgeons perform highly specialized techniques designed to restore movement and function when other treatments have failed.

Multidisciplinary Care Approach

Your care is supported by a team of specialists who collaborate to evaluate, treat, and guide your recovery from every angle. This coordinated approach ensures nothing is overlooked and your treatment plan evolves with your progress.

Personalized, Evolving Treatment Plans

Every treatment plan is tailored to your specific condition, goals, and recovery timeline. As you heal, we continuously refine your care to maximize functional outcomes and long-term success.

Meet Florida’s Top
Nerve Surgery Experts

photo of Dr. Chris Lakhiani

Chris Lakhiani

MD, FACS
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Ahmed Nasser

MD
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Joseph Dayan

MD, MBA
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Tzvi Small

MD, FACS
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Eric Weiss

MD
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Amon-Ra Gama

MD
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Matthew Kaufman

MD, FACS
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Take the First Step Toward Relief

If foot drop is limiting your mobility and independence, we can help you find relief. Our Florida specialists are here to help you move forward with clarity, precision, and confidence.

The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction is now seeing patients in Ft. Lauderdale and Boynton Beach, bringing world-class nerve care closer to home.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is foot drop permanent?
Foot drop is not always permanent, especially when the underlying nerve issue can be treated. With advanced surgical techniques, many patients are able to regain meaningful movement, strength, and improved walking ability.
When should I consider surgery for foot drop?

Surgery may be appropriate if conservative treatments like bracing or physical therapy haven’t improved your symptoms, or if your condition is worsening. A comprehensive evaluation can determine whether nerve damage is present and if surgical repair could restore function.

How long does recovery take after foot drop surgery?

Recovery varies depending on the procedure and severity of nerve damage, but many patients begin to see improvement within a few months. Because nerves heal gradually, full recovery and functional gains can continue to develop over time with proper rehabilitation.

Do I need a referral to be evaluated?

In most cases, you do not need a referral to schedule an evaluation at The Institute. Our team can guide you through the process and help coordinate any necessary records or prior imaging before your visit.