Diseases and Conditions
Foot drop
Overview
Symptoms
Causes
Risk factors
Diagnosis
Treatment
Lifestyle and home remedies
Preparing for an appointment
Symptoms
Foot drop makes it difficult to lift the front part of your foot, so it might drag on the floor when you walk. This can cause you to raise your thigh when you walk, as though climbing stairs (steppage gait), to help your foot clear the floor. This unusual gait might cause you to slap your foot down onto the floor with each step. In some cases, the skin on the top of your foot and toes feels numb.
Depending on the cause, foot drop can affect one or both feet.
When to see a doctor
If your toes drag the floor when you walk, consult your doctor.