Foot drop after a car crash: finding the cause and walking safely
Guidance from a peripheral nerve surgeon and a physical therapist on safe walking
Foot drop means the front of your foot or your toes don’t lift the way they should when you step. In a crash, an injury near the knee can affect the common peroneal nerve. Damage in the back or to another nerve can cause the same kind of weakness. [1, 2]
Your foot may catch on the ground, which makes a fall more likely. A nerve specialist figures out the cause. A physical therapist helps you walk safely while your recovery is checked. [1, 2]
Track down the source of the weakness
Tell your doctor when the weakness started, whether it’s getting better and where you feel numbness or pain. Ask whether your knee, leg, spine or another area needs to be examined. Depending on the injury and the timing, imaging or nerve tests may help. [1, 2]
Don’t assume a brace on its own deals with the cause. A nerve injury that is severe or getting worse may need a specialist’s review. [1, 2]
Lower your risk of tripping now
Ask a therapist to check how you walk and how you handle stairs. A fitted ankle brace can hold the foot up as you step. Use the walking aid you were prescribed if you need it. At home, pick up loose rugs and add better lighting. [1, 2]
Check the skin under a new brace for rubbing. Look closely if your foot feels numb. Ask how to keep your ankle flexible while the nerve recovers. [1, 2]
Know when you'll be checked again
Ask who will recheck the strength in your foot, and when. Nerves can be slow to recover. Your options depend on whether the nerve was squeezed, stretched or cut. Report it promptly if you lose more movement, the numbness gets worse or you fall. [1, 2]
Get emergency care if the weakness comes with new bladder or bowel problems or numbness around the groin. [1, 2, 3]
Questions about the nerve and your brace
- Where is the nerve problem, and what tests are planned?
- Which brace and walking aid are the right fit for me?
- When will my strength be checked again?
Try the brace with your therapist first
Sources and further reading
- 1Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital common peroneal nerve injury guide
- 2NHS foot drop
- 3North Bristol NHS Trust cauda equina syndrome
The information here is general and comes from peripheral nerve surgery and physical therapy. Any new weakness after an injury needs a medical exam. Treatment depends on what caused it and when.
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