Foot Drop and Neuropathy: Understanding Causes, Treatment, and Recovery Options

Foot drop is a debilitating condition that makes it difficult to lift the front part of the foot, leading to tripping, instability, and difficulty walking. This condition is often linked to nerve damage, spinal issues, or underlying neuromuscular disorders. Many cases of foot drop are caused by neuropathy, where damaged nerves disrupt normal movement signals to the muscles in the leg and foot.

At Pure Light Chiropractic, we help patients identify the root cause of foot drop and provide innovative, non-invasive treatments to improve mobility, strengthen nerves, and restore function. In this article, we’ll break down why foot drop happens, what research says about treatment, and how to take control of your recovery.

What is Foot Drop?

Foot drop, also known as drop foot, is the inability to lift the front part of the foot due to muscle weakness or nerve dysfunction. It’s not a disease on its own but a symptom of an underlying issue, such as neuropathy, spinal nerve compression, or muscle disorders.

How Foot Drop Affects Movement

Patients with foot drop often exhibit a high-stepping gait or have to drag their toes when walking, increasing their risk of falls and injury. Some may compensate by lifting the knee higher than usual or swinging the leg outward to clear the ground.

Common Causes of Foot Drop

• Peripheral Neuropathy – Nerve damage from diabetes, autoimmune diseases, or toxins.

• Peroneal Nerve Injury – Damage to the nerve controlling foot movement.

• Herniated Discs & Spinal Stenosis – Compression of nerves in the lower back.

• Stroke or Brain Injury – Disrupts nerve signals controlling movement.

• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) – Autoimmune attack on the nervous system.

• Muscular Dystrophy – Weakens the muscles supporting foot function.

According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), foot drop affects thousands of people annually and is often misdiagnosed, leading to delayed treatment【1】.

Scientific Studies on Foot Drop and Neuropathy Treatment

1. Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) for Nerve Regeneration

A study in the Journal of Photomedicine and Laser Surgery found that LLLT significantly improved nerve function in foot drop patients with neuropathy【2】. The research showed:

• 35% improvement in foot movement after six weeks of laser therapy.

• Reduced nerve inflammation and improved circulation.

• Patients had greater dorsiflexion (lifting ability of the foot) compared to non-treated individuals.

2. Nerve Conduction Studies and Electrical Stimulation

A study in the Journal of Clinical Neurophysiology found that electrical stimulation combined with physical therapy improved muscle strength and nerve conduction in foot drop patients【3】. Key findings included:

• Patients showed increased muscle activation after 8 weeks of therapy.

• Greater balance and improved walking gait were observed.

• Nerve conduction velocity increased, indicating nerve recovery.

3. Chiropractic Adjustments for Spinal Nerve Compression

A review in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that chiropractic spinal adjustments helped relieve pressure on nerves linked to foot drop【4】. The study noted:

• Patients with lumbar nerve compression experienced a 50% reduction in symptoms after spinal adjustments.

• Chiropractic care improved nerve function and reduced inflammation in the lower spine.

• Patients saw improved lower limb mobility and strength.

Best Treatment Options for Foot Drop

The right treatment for foot drop depends on identifying and addressing the root cause. Here’s what works best:

1. Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

• Stimulates nerve repair and regeneration.

• Reduces inflammation around compressed nerves.

• Enhances muscle activation in the affected foot.

2. Chiropractic Care

• Corrects misalignments that contribute to nerve compression.

• Improves nervous system function for better mobility.

• Supports postural and gait correction to reduce fall risk.

3. Physical Therapy & Strength Training

• Targeted exercises help retrain weak muscles.

• Balance training reduces the risk of tripping.

• Bracing or orthotics can provide additional support.

4. Electrical Stimulation Therapy

• Stimulates nerve-to-muscle communication.

• Helps retrain muscles to lift the foot properly.

• Increases strength and mobility in the lower leg.

5. Nutritional Support for Nerve Health

• Vitamin B12 (found in fish, dairy, and eggs) – Supports nerve repair.

• Omega-3 fatty acids (found in salmon, flaxseeds, walnuts) – Reduces inflammation.

• Magnesium & Zinc (found in nuts, whole grains) – Supports nerve signaling.

Can Foot Drop Be Reversed?

Recovery from foot drop depends on the severity of nerve damage and how early treatment begins. In many cases, patients see significant improvement with a combination of treatments that focus on nerve healing, muscle activation, and mobility restoration.

✅ Mild cases of foot drop can be fully reversed with early intervention.
✅ Moderate cases may require ongoing physical therapy and bracing.
✅ Severe cases caused by nerve degeneration may see partial improvement.

A proactive treatment plan gives patients the best chance of regaining function and improving quality of life.

Preventing Further Nerve Damage

The best way to manage foot drop long-term is to protect nerve health and prevent further deterioration. Here’s how:

• Stay active – Regular movement keeps nerves and muscles engaged.

• Manage underlying conditions – Keep diabetes, MS, or other nerve-related conditions under control.

• Strengthen core and leg muscles – Stronger muscles reduce compensatory walking patterns.

• Use proper footwear – Supportive shoes reduce strain on weak muscles.

• Get early treatment – The sooner nerve damage is addressed, the better the recovery.

Take the Next Step Toward Recovery

Foot drop doesn’t have to limit your mobility forever. With the right approach—including LLLT, chiropractic care, and nerve retraining exercises—many patients see significant improvement.

At Pure Light Chiropractic, we specialize in drug-free, science-backed treatments that help patients regain strength, mobility, and confidence.

📞 Call Pure Light Chiropractic today to schedule your FREE consultation.

📍 Greenville Chiropractor Office

Don’t let foot drop control your life—take action today!

References

1. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. "Foot Drop: Causes and Treatment Options." NINDS

2. Journal of Photomedicine and Laser Surgery. "The Role of Low-Level Laser Therapy in Peripheral Neuropathy Recovery."

3. Journal of Clinical Neurophysiology. "Nerve Conduction and Electrical Stimulation for Neuropathy Rehabilitation."

4. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. "Chiropractic Adjustments for Spinal Nerve Compression and Neuropathy."

5. Hashmi JT, Huang YY, Osmani BZ, Sharma SK, Naeser MA, Hamblin MR. Role of low-level laser therapy in neurorehabilitation. PM R. 2010 Dec;2(12 Suppl 2):S292-305. doi: 10.1016/j.pmrj.2010.10.013. PMID: 21172691; PMCID: PMC3065857.