The National Foot Drop Society (NFDS) was founded in 2018 with the aim of “eliminating unmanaged foot drop” through education to medical professionals and the general public.

Foot Drop or Drop Foot is the inability to lift the foot and toes properly when walking. It occurs when the muscles are not strong enough to lift the foot, or if the foot lift is hampered by tight or overactive calf muscles. It can lead to trips and falls, and a loss of confidence when walking. It can severly limit the leisure and employment options for sufferers. A fall can result in a fractured hip (or worse) and a further reduction in mobility.

Foot drop is a sign of an underlying problem rather than a condition itself.

Most commonly, it is seen individuals following a Stroke or Head Injury, or who have a Neurological condition such as Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's, or Guillain-Barre Syndrome. It can also be caused by local nerve damage in the lower leg, a muscle or nerve disorder or occur as a complication of diabetes.

There are number of treatments options available from simple exercises that can be performed at home to medical devices such as Functional Electrical Stimulators (FES) that are provided by Physiotherapists and Orthotists. Foot drop can be managed successfully using ankle supports and splints, some of which can be bought from mobility equipment suppliers, whilst others are required to be custom-made and fitted by Orthotists.

A key strategy has been the running of annual National Foot Drop Awareness Days during which clinicians and individuals with experience of foot drop share their experiences via social media platforms. SInce inception, the NFDS has organised six annual awareness days - most recenty Friday 20th September 2024.

Funding for the NFDS has been through sponsorships and donations. Obtaining the status of a Registered Charity would be enhance the fundraising opportunites for NFDS and help to realise its vision of eliminating unmanaged foot drop

For further information, please contact: nationalfootdropsociety@gmail.com

Or visit https://www.nationalfootdropsociety.com

 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nationalfootdropawareness