MOTIONrehab offers a transformative path to recovery, helping you regain your mobility, reducing your fall risk and enhancing your overall quality of life for clients with foot drop.
Improve mobility and reduce the risk of tripping with foot drop rehabilitation from MOTIONrehab.
Drop foot (Foot Drop) is a condition where a person has difficulty lifting the front part of the foot, causing it to drag along the ground when walking. It is a symptom of an underlying neurological, muscular, or anatomical issue rather than a disease itself.
Drop foot occurs due to weakness or paralysis of the muscles that lift the foot (dorsiflexors), which can result from:
Nerve damage (neuropathy)
Nerve compression (e.g., prolonged kneeling, leg crossing, or tight casts)
Sciatic nerve injury
Diabetes-related neuropathy
Neurological conditions affecting the brain or spinal cord.
Muscle disorders – Conditions like muscular dystrophy can weaken foot-lifting muscles.
Spinal cord injuries – Herniated discs, tumours, or trauma affecting nerves supplying the foot.
How MOTIONrehab can help with Foot Drop
MOTIONrehab are experts in the use of FES for the treatment of drop foot. Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) is a treatment that uses electrical impulses to activate the nerves controlling foot movement. It helps people with drop foot by stimulating the peroneal nerve, which lifts the foot during walking, improving mobility and reducing the risk of tripping.
We have access to a range of FES devices and recommend an assessment to see if it is right for you. FES is only effective when drop is caused by damage or injury to the brain or spinal cord. Unfortunately, it does not work for drop foot caused by problems with a peripheral nerve (i.e. a nerve once it has left the spinal cord. Examples are drop foot related to sciatica, post-operative complications, and Diabetes-related neuropathy.
In addition to our private, NHS funding maybe available to help provide FES. MOTIONrehab operate an NHS Outreach service across the region.
Restores More Natural Walking Pattern – Reduces the need for compensatory movements like high-stepping.
Reduces Risk of Falls – Improves foot clearance, lowering the chance of tripping.
Strengthens Muscles – Prevents muscle wasting by stimulating movement.
Improves Confidence and Independence – Helps people walk more comfortably in daily life.
Can Reduce Need for Bracing (AFOs) – Some patients may transition away from rigid braces.
Client Stories
SEE HOW WE CAN HELP
Sandra’s Story
Spinal Cord InjuryFoot Drop
In April 2017, Sandra was paralysed below the neck and was diagnosed with Longitudinally Extensive Transverse Myelitis. Sandra spent five months in Inpatient Rehabilitation at Castle Hill Hospital as well as spending some time at Pinderfields Hospital. Sandra's...
Geoff’s Story
Spinal Cord Injury
Geoff suffered a spinal cord injury in September 2023. In January 2024 he started Motion Rehab with an intensive package of 80 hours over 4-6 weeks. He received a mixture of hands-on physiotherapy as well as using the Tyromotion devices to allow increased repetition of movement and data feedback...
Ellie’s Story
Functional Neurological Disorder (FND)
Following an asthma attack in June of 2023, Ellie was diagnosed with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), affecting her mobility and causing her to experience severe difficulties with standing and complex moments. Her FND required Ellie to need...
Claire’s Story
Vestibular Disorders
Claire attended MOTIONrehab in July 2023 having had a diagnosis previously of Viral Labyrinthitis which caused her to be hospitalised. This resolved but in 2023 she continued to get small relapses in dizziness symptoms, always associated with head...
Frances Story
Stroke
In December 2022, I had a stroke which caused a catastrophic bleed on my brain then had to spend 5 months in hospital and a further 2 months in a care home while my home was being adapted. The prognosis, I had been given by the specialist at the...
Denise’s Story
Brain Injury
Denise started therapy with MOTIONrehab at our Leeds clinic in July 2022. She was experiencing weakness on her right side after being treated with radiotherapy for brain tumours in 2018. Denise developed some weakness resulting in a series of falls....
Neil’s Story
Stroke
Neil had a Stroke in 2018 which left him with left sided weakness. In July 2021, he came to MOTIONrehab Hull to start an Intensive Rehabilitation Programme. Neil's motivation was to improve his walking quality and to regain some function in his left arm.
Ava’s Story
Functional Neurological Disorder (FND)
After investigations following symptoms such as arm and leg weakness, seizure activity and jerking movements Ava was diagnosed with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND). Ava began having treatment with MOTIONrehab in September...
Our approach to neurological rehabilitation is recommended by leading authorities including National Clinic Guidelines, NICE and Cochrane. We are the trusted choice for neurological rehabilitation. At MOTIONrehab, we provide a personalised, evidence-based approach to rehabilitation, empowering you on your journey to recovery. Combining expert hands-on physio with innovative robotic and advanced rehabilitation technology that provides the high repetition that is essential for the optimisation of outcomes. We can improve mobility, hand and arm function and accelerate recovery, and restore quality of life.
UK’s first Intensive Robotic Neurological Rehabilitation Centre
In April 2018, MOTIONrehab launched the UK’s first Intensive Robotic Neurological Rehabilitation Centre. The centre in Leeds went on to be recognised by the Financial Times, Google and leading European policy makers as one of the Top 100 companies for digital innovation in the rehabilitation sector.
Following the success of MOTIONrehab’s Intensive Robotic Neurological Rehabilitation Centre in Leeds and after seeing such positive outcomes for its clients MOTIONrehab launched a second Intensive Robotic Neurological Rehabilitation Centre in Hull during December 2020 and a third in March 2024. MOTIONrehab’s Intensive Neurological Rehabilitation Centres accepts national and international referrals and are International Reference Centres for treatment, teaching and research.
Drop foot (or foot drop) is a condition where it becomes difficult to lift the front part of the foot due to weakness or paralysis of the muscles that control dorsiflexion (lifting the foot upward). This can cause difficulty walking and increase the risk of tripping or falling.
Drop foot can be caused by a range of neurological, muscular, or anatomical issues, including:
Lifting the leg higher than usual to compensate (steppage gait)
Slapping the foot down with each step
Numbness or tingling in the foot or leg
FES is a treatment that uses small electrical impulses to activate the nerves and muscles that lift the foot during walking. Electrodes are placed on the skin, typically around the peroneal nerve (nerve supplying the muscles of the shin that lift the foot during walkng), to stimulate movement and improve walking patterns.
FES helps restore more natural walking by:
Lifting the foot during the swing phase of walking
Reducing the risk of tripping and falling
Improving confidence, speed, and endurance
Potentially preventing secondary complications like joint stiffness
FES is often used for people with drop foot caused by injury, illness or disease of either the brain or the spinal cord. Unfortunately, it does not work if there is damage to the peripheral nerve (i.e. once the nerve has left the spinal cord).
A clinical assessment is required to determine if FES is appropriate and effective for your specific condition.
Yes, other management options include:
Ankle-Foot Orthoses (AFOs): Braces that support the ankle and foot, helping to hold the foot in a stable position while walking can be really effective. There are ‘off-the-shelf’ options, or you may need a bespoke ‘made-to-measure’ splint. MOTIONrehab can refer you to appropriate colleagues in our rehabilitation network to help get the right AFO for you..
Motionrehab are specialist in providing personalised treatment plans to work on strengthening muscles, improving balance and walking patterns as well as regular stretches to maintain flexibility and prevent contractures.
The Robotic Gait Trainers (Lexo, Lyra & Omego) at MOTIONrehab provide an opportunity for task-specific training to help recover function..
Whether drop foot can be cured depends on the underlying cause. In some cases (such as temporary nerve compression), it may resolve over time with treatment. In other cases, long-term management may be necessary to maintain function and mobility.
MOTIONrehab provide NHS Outreach services for FES in our clinic depending on local services and funding you can be referred for treatment at MOTIONrehab on the NHS, however access can vary. Contact 0343 841 0123 or info@motionrehab.co.uk for more information. Additionally, MOTIONrehab also offers privately funded FES options.
At your first appointment, your therapist will take a detailed medical history and discuss your current condition and any relevant background information. A clinical examination will then be carried out, including an assessment of your movement, function, and what you are currently able to do. This helps us build a clear understanding of your needs. Following the assessment, we will work with you to discuss your treatment goals and aims, and use this information to formulate a personalised therapy plan tailored to your specific objectives.
CLIENT TESTIMONIALS
Our Results Speak For Themselves
Andy Slater – Hull
As a family we can’t thank you guys enough for the help and support you have given Ellie during her journey with FND.
When Ellie was diagnosed we didn’t know which way to turn there was a 3 years waiting list but thankfully we found Motion Rehab.
The results have been life changing for us as a family and Ellie has her independence back 👍
Craig – Leeds
I would just like to say a huge thank you to Helga from MOTIONrehab for the excellent work she’s done helping my Dad rebuild his abilities, strength and confidence following a stroke where he lost the use of a leg and an arm. While he had excellent care from the NHS initially, it was meeting Helga who really sped up his recovery through the more advanced techniques and exercises and now my Dad is able to get out of a chair, stand and walk with his heel fully down and being able to stand straight. We had been told this wasn’t possible, but this didn’t stop Helga. Thank you Helga, the difference this has made to my Dad is something else.”
Craig Flannigan (Ian’s Flannigan son)
James – Hull
James started with Parkinson’s symptoms in 2011 and was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2013. His Neurologist suggested seeking advice from a neurological physiotherapist to maintain function and mobility.
James is very proactive in maintaining an active lifestyle and has made exercise a routine part of his day.
Since early 2018 James has been receiving regular treatment and advice from MOTIONrehab.
This is what he has to say about his physiotherapist…
Libby has a patient and encouraging manner and helps me to do things I would not ordinarily do or have the confidence to try by myself.
Rose (Mike’s Sister) – Leeds
I have not personally met Helga so can only go by what I am told by Mike, but I have interacted with Helga through phone calls and emails. She is an amazing physiotherapist and I have nothing but praise for Helga. Her skills and knowledge are outstanding – she is so passionate about achieving the best possible outcome for Mike following his ischemic stroke, which has left the entire right side of his body paralysed. Being discharged from hospital following his stroke, it was some months before Mike could get NHS physiotherapy and so after that finished we had to make a decision about getting Mike additional help. We are so glad that we chose MOTIONrehab.
We did not know what to expect in terms of Mike’s recovery particularly as he suffered a major stroke and we anticipated that he would have limited rehabilitation potential. Helga has given Mike a quality of life and a future we could not have imagined. He has made great progress with his mobility and is positive about his outlook whilst being realistic about where he is. I also find that Helga is not only aware of Mike’s physical state but is also in tune with how it affects his mood. I can tell when speaking to Mike after his sessions that not only does he feel that little bit stronger but also more mentally positive. I would like to thank Helga for her compassion, dedication and enthusiasm throughout the year.
Finally, I would also like to thank Helen and Daisy for the kindness and support provided to Mike and myself. They are always cheerful when I speak to them and I know they make Mike feel welcome. We have had a few issues with the taxis and appointments during the last couple of months but they have been super helpful and patient – much appreciated.
Chris – Leeds
To all the team of MOTIONrehab Leeds a really big thank you from first attending the clinic for my assessment through to my last appointment I have always felt like I am in safe hands. You’ve exceeded my expectations of what I could achieve with all your help, support and advice. I am grateful to you all for getting me on my feet and helping build my confidence.
Patricia – Harrogate
Having had a stroke 4 years ago I still had a problem with my right arm. Then I met Helga from MOTIONrehab and with her expert neuro physiotherapy knowledge things have improved significantly. Helga introduced me to different techniques and exercises that have helped me to gain activity in my hand and wrist. She has such an enthusiastic approach and ability to motivate so that I can achieve my goals.
Many thanks to Helga we will miss her visits.
John – Leeds
I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in late 2017 and pretty much since then have been working with and benefitting enormously from Helga and MOTIONrehab.
Helga is very skilled, has a great deal of knowledge and the gift of lightly but firmly controlling each and every weekly session, almost always introducing some new exercise or skill development whilst not forgetting to check up on progress made in older exercises. She has been generous in lending me equipment until I was able to decide what I needed to buy and is ingenious in adapting exercises to stave off deterioration in my physical condition. Helga has a light but serious touch and is very adept at encouraging progress and addressing issues with gentle encouragement and good humor. She is easy to talk to, generous by nature, very hard working, flexible in her approach and clearly devoted to her job. My wife and I are both immensely grateful to her.
Sessions usually start with strengthening exercises using weights, move on to coordination and balance, then stretching. Helga also strongly encourages daily exercise between our sessions and is always ready to explain the reasons for a particular requirement.
Rachel – York
After Covid-19 infection, I was left very weak and with mobility issues. Charlotte got me back to my normal walking gait in a week and able to run in four weeks!
Charlotte always listened with empathy and kindness. Charlotte worked with infectious positivity, creating targeted interventions that were specific to my needs whilst also addressing anxieties I’d shared with her. Charlotte worked with me as if we were a team; valuing my thoughts and ideas and working in the direction I felt was important to me. Charlotte’s enthusiasm, confidence in the approaches and sense of fun, empowered me to work effectively at my recovery. Charlotte’s confidence became my confidence and this enabled me to visualise and work towards a successful rehabilitation from the effects of Covid-19.
I thoroughly recommend Charlotte and the service from MOTIONrehab. Thank you.
Neil – Hull
My son has been a client at MOTIONrehab Hull for the the last 8years (mostly accessing it 3 times a week) after suffering a massive cerebral haemorrhage which left him both physically and neurologically disabled.
During this time at MOTIONrehab he has improved both physically and mentally. All the staff there are really nice and friendly and very accommodating.
We chose MOTIONrehab as being most appropriate for our son as they are Neurological Physiotherapists as opposed to sports injury physiotherapists.
In the last 2 years they have opened a robotic suite which is extremely good.
My son not only gets great and varied physiotherapy input but for him it is a social event as well. He likes to have a hot chocolate and a laugh and a joke with all the staff.
I would highly recommend MOTIONrehab.
Keith Norman – Occupational Therapist
I have known Tom at MOTIONrehab for many years through networking events and have always found him to be friendly and knowledgeable. I recently had the opportunity to work alongside Tom supporting a client with significant injuries affecting balance, fatigue, motivation, and cognition. Tom’s approach has been skilful, creative, and person-centred. His work has been highly valued by our client and has been essential in supporting the client to transition from being almost completely house-bound to engaging in a range of community-based activities including golf, cycling, racket sports and hiking.
Rosie Dickson – Case Manager
Working with the team at MOTIONrehab is always very rewarding. They offer effective, goal-based rehabilitation which focuses on the client’s unique circumstances. This sometimes means treatment is clinic & gym based, and sometimes out in the community walking or trying different sports to challenge the client and return them to activities they’ve previously enjoyed. It’s this flexibility and the close attention to specific client needs and difficulties which brings me back to MOTIONrehab when I have new referrals. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them.
David King – Solicitor
I have exclusively represented clients with brain and spinal cord injuries for over 11 years, many of whom have been treated at MOTIONrehab, particularly their state-of-the-art clinics, with excellent results. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend their service.
Our Clinics
Leeds
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The Clinic at Morley is equipped with a full suite of robotic and advanced rehabilitation technology and ten spacious clinic rooms. Fully accessible with ground floor toileting facilities and free parking.
Doncaster
Brand NEW!
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The clinic at Doncaster is equipped with a full robotics and advanced rehabilitation technology. Fully accessible with ground floor toilet facilities and treatment rooms.
Hull
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Located at Warners Health Club with a large robotic and advanced rehabilitation technology suite, a gym and private patient treatment rooms. Level access to the building with designated parking spaces and disabled access toilet.
York
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Located in Yorkshire Sport Medicine within David Lloyd Gym. Fully accessible with free parking via a code that will be provided by your physiotherapist.
See How We Can Help
For more information about how MOTIONrehab can help with Foot Drop Rehabilitation, please feel free to get in touch with us by giving us a call, or alternatively fill out the form here and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
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