As a trusted provider of orthotics to the Cincinnati area, National Prosthetics & Orthotics is constantly on the lookout for new and innovative devices to help their patients. The WalkAide® system is an item that has shown promise for people suffering from foot drop. The following information explains a bit more about this condition, and how WalkAide aims to address it.

What Is Foot Drop?

Also known as drop foot, this condition entails difficulty raising the front of the foot when walking. People afflicted with foot drop commonly drag their affected foot on the ground or employ a steppage gait, similar to how a person typically traverses stairs. There may also be numbness in the toes and foot, which can result in a person slapping their foot to the ground when walking.

Why Does It Occur?

Foot drop is linked to a few different disorders. Ailments of the brain and spine may be to blame, or the issue could be caused by a disease that weakens muscles. Foot drop can also occur due to nerve injury, particularly the peroneal nerve. Drop foot sometimes results after hip surgery if the peroneal nerve sustained damage during the procedure.

How Does WalkAide Help?

WalkAide is a device that is strapped to the leg to diminish symptoms of foot drop. As a neuro-prosthetic, this device uses electric currents to stimulate nerves and allow for proper dorsiflexion. An orthotics professional will read the data coming from the trial of WalkAide to determine where the signals will have the greatest impact. Once this data is received, the device will be programmed according to the patient’s specific needs to offer the best results.

While many people can be fitted with WalkAide, the device should not be used under certain circumstances. For instance, conditions like peripheral neuropathy and spinal stenosis do not respond well to this device. In general, WalkAide is recommended for foot drop caused by traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis, among many other conditions.  

Along with their skill regarding custom orthotics, the team at National Prosthetics & Orthotics can also offer a wide range of prosthesis, including those suited to mastectomies. Call to speak with a knowledgeable representative at this trusted Cold Spring, KY company. You can also learn more about the complete listing of services by visiting the website.