About Steppage Gait
Key Highlights
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Accurate diagnosis of the underlying neurological condition causing foot drop.Non-invasive initial management through physical therapy and gait training.Customized orthotic support (e.g., Ankle-Foot Orthosis) to improve walking safety and efficiency.Potential for surgical interventions to address nerve compression or perform tendon transfers in persistent cases.Holistic approach aimed at preventing falls, reducing fatigue, and improving overall quality of life.
Who is this surgery for?
- Visible foot drop where the front of the foot drags on the ground while walking.
- Weakness in the muscles that dorsiflex (lift) the ankle, often due to peroneal nerve injury.
- Underlying neurological disorders such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, or lumbar radiculopathy.
- Peripheral neuropathies, including those from diabetes or hereditary conditions like Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease.
- Trauma or compression affecting the sciatic or common peroneal nerve.
- Muscle diseases (myopathies) or spinal cord disorders affecting lower limb motor control.
How to prepare
- Detailed neurological examination including assessment of muscle strength, reflexes, and sensation.
- Diagnostic tests such as Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) and Electromyography (EMG) to evaluate nerve and muscle function.
- Imaging studies like MRI of the lumbar spine or lower limb to identify structural causes.
- Review of complete medical history and current medications.
- Discussion of symptoms, functional limitations, and treatment goals with the neurologist.
- For potential surgical intervention, standard pre-operative assessments (blood tests, ECG) may be required.
Risks & possible complications
- For diagnostic procedures (EMG/NCS): Minor discomfort, bruising, or very rare infection at needle sites.
- For orthotic use: Skin irritation, discomfort, or muscle atrophy from prolonged dependency on the brace.
- For surgical interventions (if needed): Risks include infection, bleeding, nerve damage, blood clots, or anesthesia complications.
- Incomplete resolution of symptoms or persistent gait abnormality despite treatment.
- Risk of trips and falls if the condition is not adequately managed.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Initial focus is on consistent use of prescribed ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) and assistive devices if needed.
- Regular physical therapy sessions for gait retraining, muscle strengthening, and stretching exercises.
- Gradual increase in walking distance and activity as tolerated, with safety precautions to prevent falls.
- Regular follow-up with the neurologist to monitor progress and adjust the treatment plan.
- For post-surgical recovery: A period of immobilization may be followed by structured rehabilitation.
- Long-term management of the underlying neurological condition is essential.
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Typical hospital stay: 0 days (outpatient for diagnosis and non-surgical management) or 1-3 days (if surgery is required)
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Expected recovery time: Varies widely: 2-6 weeks for initial adaptation to orthotics and therapy; 3-6 months or more for full recovery post-surgery or from the underlying condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering steppage gait in Turkey, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Popular choices for steppage gait in Turkey include Liv Hospital Bahçeşehir, Istinye Üniversitesi Hastanesi Liv, Liv Hospital Ankara, known for experienced specialists and advanced surgical infrastructure.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform steppage gait. MediFyr helps you compare neurologists and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for steppage gait compare across other countries where we have data.
| Country | Estimated cost range | Typical stay | Recovery time | View details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| India | USD 54 – USD 1,632 | 0 days (outpatient for diagnosis and non-surgical management) or 1-3 days (if surgery is required) | ~ Varies widely: 2-6 weeks for initial adaptation to orthotics and therapy; 3-6 months or more for full recovery post-surgery or from the underlying condition. | Know More |
| Turkey | USD 403 – USD 12,079 | 0 days (outpatient for diagnosis and non-surgical management) or 1-3 days (if surgery is required) | ~ Varies widely: 2-6 weeks for initial adaptation to orthotics and therapy; 3-6 months or more for full recovery post-surgery or from the underlying condition. | Know More |
Top hospitals for Steppage Gait in Turkey
These partner hospitals in Turkey have dedicated neurology teams and experience managing patients undergoing steppage gait.
Had my gallbladder out last week....
Had my gallbladder out last week. The surgery itself was fine, but the first two days after were rough. Dr. Madhumitha was really on top of my pain meds, adjusting them a few times until it was manageable. She checked on me every morning and evening at MGM, which helped a lot. I'm home now and the recovery is going okay, just taking it slow.