Health information to help you understand symptoms. It isn't a diagnosis.About OwieClear
Check symptoms

Foot drop (peroneal nerve palsy)

Also called: Foot drop, peroneal nerve palsy

Can't lift the front of the foot, causing tripping, often from pressure at the outer knee (like crossing legs).

HelpAnkle brace

Overview

The nerve near the knee is squeezed or hurt.

The foot slaps or drags when walking.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Foot drags or slaps

Less common

  • Numb top of foot
  • Tripping

When to get medical care

Call 911Sudden face drooping, arm weakness, trouble speaking, or vision loss: call 911.
Get care todayNew or worse symptoms, or symptoms with fever.
See a doctor soonSymptoms that last or keep coming back.

Causes

Nerve pressure.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Weight loss
  • Leg crossing

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • Exam:
  • EMG:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

  • Avoid crossing legs
  • Ankle brace
  • Use an ankle brace

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

  • Don't cross legs for long
  • Check casts for pressure

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
  • They may send you to a neurologist (brain and nerve doctor).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

  • People who lost a lot of weight: Higher risk.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
  • Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
  • Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
  • Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Many recover over months.

Many recover in months.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

  • A list of your medicines and supplements
  • Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

  • What's causing this?
  • What treatment do you recommend?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Foot drop (peroneal nerve palsy)

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.