Tendon transfer for foot drop - operative indications

A foot drop is relative. The degree of severity depends upon the power of the extensors & evertors versus the weight of the foot and pull of flexors and invertors. It is important to assess the relative power of peroneals, tibialis posterior and ankle extensors verses flexors when considering the potential effect of transferring the Tibialis posterior dorsally. The aetiology of the cause must be considered as well as in post traumatic cases the timing and whether any chance of neurlogical recovery exists. The light weight carbon fibre foot drop splint is a significant advance in non operative management. This should be experienced by most patients before undertaking tendon transfer for foot drop.