Exercises for Foot Drop after Stroke, Nerve, or Muscle Damage (Weak Ankle & Foot)

𝐅𝐨𝐨𝐭 𝐃𝐫𝐨𝐩
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🔎The ankle dorsiflexors are located on the front of the shin and act as the antagonist to the calf muscles (plantarflexors). They play an important role in the walking (gait) cycle and are responsible for two primary actions during gait, which include:
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1️⃣The dorsiflexors are activated when contact (heel strike) is first made with the ground. As the heel hits, this group must contract eccentrically in order to allow the foot to be set down smoothly. Weakness of the dorsiflexors during this task creates the ‘foot slap’ phenomenon as the foot falls quickly and slaps the ground.
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2️⃣The dorsiflexors are activated a second time as the foot is picked up and swung forward in preparation for a new step. These muscles must dorsiflex the ankle, so that the toes do not catch on the ground. In situations of dorsiflexor compromise, the toes may catch, which is termed ‘foot drag’, and may cause the individual to trip and become injured.
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🧠Besides gait issues, the dorsiflexors are often implicated in more common orthopedic issues such as shin splints, tendon disorders and more severe low back cases (L4 level) that can be associated with dorsiflexor weakness and foot drop.
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✅If you are experiencing either foot drop or foot drag, give these exercises a try. Find the level that matches your capabilities and work from there.
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1️⃣Marching Isometric: In this exercise, the dorsiflexors must hold the ankle in neutral as gravity tries to pull the ankle into plantarflexion. Perform 2-3 sets 15-20 reps.
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2️⃣Unloaded Dorsiflexor Curl: Lift the foot up and down and try to squeeze the muscles on the front of the shin. Perform 2-3 sets of 15-20 reps.
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3️⃣Step with Eccentric Control: Step forward and strike the ground with your heel. Then, use your dorsiflexors eccentrically to slowly lower your foot to the ground. Perform 2-3 sets of 15-20 reps.
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4️⃣Loaded Dorsiflexor Curl: With a band secured around both feet, move the ankle through concentric and eccentric dorsiflexor contractions. Perform 2-3 sets of 8-12 reps.
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