Foot drop (sometimes called drop foot) is a complex mobility impairment affecting the ability to lift the front of the foot during walking (dorsiflexion). This disruption to natural gait mechanics forces compensatory movements like exaggerated knee lifts or foot swinging ("steppage gait"), leading to instability, fatigue, and increased fall risk.

Primary Causes & Impact:
Foot drop typically stems from neurological dysfunction or muscular weakness disrupting nerve signals to ankle muscles. Common origins include:

• Stroke (damage to motor pathways)

• Neurodegenerative diseases (Multiple Sclerosis, ALS, Cerebral Palsy)

• Peripheral nerve injuries (sciatica, peroneal nerve compression)

• Spinal trauma or surgical complications

• Muscular dystrophies or diabetic neuropathy

Beyond Tripping: Unmanaged foot drop cascades into secondary challenges:
→ Chronic pain from abnormal joint stress (hips, knees, lower back)
→ Muscle atrophy due to reduced functional use
→ Energy depletion from inefficient movement patterns
→ Social withdrawal from fear of falls or embarrassment

Thankfully, modern solutions like the RehabStride AFO brace are helping individuals overcome the limitations of foot drop and restore natural, confident walking.
Let’s explore the top 10 questions real patients ask about walking with foot drop—and how the RehabStride™ AFO offers game-changing support.

This is where RehabStride™ changes everything. Traditional rigid AFOs often sacrifice natural motion for stability, but our patented dynamic hinge system replicates healthy ankle biomechanics while preventing foot drop.

How RehabStride™ Addresses the Root Challenges:

Clinical Advantages Validated:

• Adjustable Resistance: Progressively rebuild strength through controlled challenge (I-III settings)

• Gait Retraining: Real-time feedback encourages neuroplasticity in rehab settings

• MRI-Compatible: Titanium-free design simplifies diagnostic imaging

  "Before RehabStride™, I dragged my foot like dead weight. Now I hike with my grandkids – it gives back the spring in my step I thought was gone forever."
  — Mark T., Post-Stroke User (18 months)