Question
My husband had total hip replacement the first of April 2010 and developed foot drop afterwards. He had PT for 14 weeks and has shown some improvement, but still has pain in his foot and toes.  Although he has improved some, he still experiences loss of movement in foot and toes.  He hasn't had any nerve studies.  Would chiropractic care help this?  Thank you.

Answer
Hi Ann,

I would suggest that he have an EMG.  Chiropractic can help in similar way that PT helps, by improving joint movement.  A good chiropractor can also provide skilled soft tissue work, different than just massaging, but with "release" techniques to the hip region in combination with joint mobilization and manipulation.  If the foot drop is changing/improving, that's great news. Nerves take a long time to heal, so it could be a while.  But an EMG would be helpful in better understanding if there is nerve damage.  You should try to find a chiropractor with certification via:  www.grastontechnique.com

'Best of luck.

Dr. G