Foot Drop Treatment

I'm sorry your father is dealing with this — foot drop after prolonged hospitalization is more common than people realize, and the lack of urgency from providers can be frustrating.

An ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) is the most practical solution for foot drop. This is a brace that supports the foot and ankle, preventing it from dragging and reducing fall risk. There are several types: rigid AFOs provide maximum support, while hinged or articulated AFOs allow some ankle movement. For someone spending significant time in bed, a lighter carbon fiber AFO might be more comfortable than traditional plastic models. You can get these through an orthotist (requires a prescription) or order basic versions online, though custom-fitted ones work better.

Beyond the brace, functional electrical stimulation (FES) devices like the WalkAide or Bioness can help. These send electrical pulses to stimulate the muscles that lift the foot during walking. They're not cheap and need medical supervision, but they can improve mobility and potentially aid recovery.

Physical therapy is critical even if he's not very mobile yet. A PT specializing in neurological conditions can work on range of motion, strengthening, and gait training. ICU-acquired weakness can improve with proper rehabilitation — it's not always permanent like nerve damage would be.

If providers aren't taking this seriously, push for a referral to a physiatrist (physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist) or neurologist. Foot drop significantly increases fall risk and can lead to compensatory problems in the knee and hip. Getting proper evaluation and treatment now matters for his long-term mobility.

After hip replacement therapy I experienced drop foot. Because I have DDD my back is horrible, I opted for water therapy. It took a long time, but I got my foot back, for me I have a better outcome with water PT. I can move better and seem to get better benefit from the therapy. Talk to the doctor there is a brace he can use, but he needs to start moving. I hope he gets his foot back.

Thank you for the kind words. He's on a wound vac for the bed sore he acquired in the hospital, so he's not able to move much. He's waiting on a custom AFO and FES device from his foot and ankle doctor. I'd like to know more about the water therapy.

The suggestions, especially regarding a brace are great. Also, even if not wearing a brace, high top sneakers/shoes that extend above the ankle should be worn. I have worked with many spinal cord injury patients and we always have them in high top supportive sneakers/shoes. Also, there is something known as a foot board. It is placed at the foot of the bed to help keep the toes in an upward position. Don't pull the covers/blankets too tight if they are tucked in to the bottom of the bed - as this can make it worse.
Good luck.

Thanks again for the suggestions. One thing we are confused about is exercises to help with leg strength and flexibility. We are getting mixed opinions from therapists about whether or not he should do calf raises.