Question
My mother had her second neurosurgery to have the same benign tumor removed a year ago.  Both surgeries have left her with problems moving her right foot.  She would like to go walking now that spring is here but her toes tend to curve under and become painful if she walks very far.  Is there any kind of splint or something that she could use that may be helpful.  I know this is an unusual question so anything you can tell me would be greatly appreciated.

Answer
Hi Jamie,

It is common to have changes to the toes or feet after brain injury, stroke or surgery.  Patients will often lose strength in their foot and develop a condition known as drop foot.  There is a special brace that will keep the foot from dropping down while walking.  In addition the toe tendons may over-pull and cause problems.

I would see a Podiatrist for evaluation and treatment.

The other helpful treatment would be to see a physical therapist for gait training(help with walking) and muscle strengthening.

Lastly there are minor surgical procedures to release the tendons under the toe.  This may be helpful and can be evaluated by the Podiatrist.

Hope that helps.

Sincerely,

Marc Katz, DPM
Tampa, Florida
Advanced Podiatry
www.thetampapodiatrist.com
www.tampacryosurgery.com
www.fix-my-foot.com