Drop foot, the condition where it is difficult to lift the front part of your foot, may be temporary or more permanent.
Though there are other methods to help with this condition, proper footwear can provide support and comfort while allowing you to walk more naturally and normally.
We have chosen a few of New Balance’s shoe models with features such as a more accommodating fit, proper arch support, stability, and comfortable cushioning to help control motion and properly align your feet for comfort and easy walking.
Drop Foot Symptoms and Causes
Drop foot or Foot Drop is used when the front part of your foot drags on the ground when you walk and when you can almost no longer lift it.
It is not quite a disease yet but rather a neurological, muscular, or anatomical issue, that may be temporary, or in some cases permanent.
Most individuals with drop feet need to wear a brace on their ankles to keep their feet in a normal position. Thus, we need to look for shoes that accommodate a brace or orthotic device.
- Symptoms – Drop foot can affect one or both feet. You may find it difficult to lift the front part of your foot, and it will drag on the floor when you walk. You will have to raise your hips and thighs when walking or climbing stairs, and you may slap your foot down on the floor with every step. Sometimes, the skin on the top of the affected foot will feel numb.
- Causes – Drop foot is mainly caused by muscle or nerve injuries and brain or spinal cord disorders.
- Risk Factors – You have a Peroneal nerve that controls the muscles which lift your feet. The nerve runs near the skin’s surface, on the sides of your knees; if this nerve is compressed, it can cause Drop Foot. Thus, crossing your legs frequently, prolonged kneeling, and wearing a leg cast may press the nerve, leading to a drop foot.
- Treatments – Drop Foot is usually treated with a brace or splint that keeps the ankle and foot in a secure position. Physical therapy and Nerve stimulation may be used to try and re-activate the nerves or muscles that may not perform as they should. In severe cases, surgery may be needed. As home treatments, I would suggest that you clear your home of clutter and make sure that pathways are well illuminated and clear, as with drop foot, you are at a very high risk of tripping and falling.
Shoes for Drop Foot
You will need to find a comfortable and supportive shoe that is very lightweight to make it easier for you to lift your feet when walking.
It would be best if you had a good balance between a supportive shoe that is lightweight and not too flexible, Mostly a Cross training shoe that offers firmer support and is still quite lightweight.
High-top shoe styles and shoes with Velcro straps in which you can adjust the fit to support your ankles are also ideal.
Features of a Good New Balance Shoe for Drop Foot
- Uppers – New Balance shoes are available in lightweight mesh or knit uppers designs and firmer and more accommodating leather options. The shoes have a moisture-wicking lining and have good structural support. We have added some lace-up and Velcro closure styles. The Ultra-Heel Models have a higher heel fit that better supports your ankles.
- Cushioning – New Balance shoes come with a softer NB cushioned insole, or firmer PU insole, which are both removable.
- Midsole – Midsole cushioning in New Balance shoes range from the very plush and high-rebound Fresh Foam Midsole that is thick but lightweight. The PU midsole for more stable support. The Absorb midsole offers better shock absorbency, and their IMEVA midsoles are firm with some flex and durability. Lastly, their REVlite midsole Is the softest and most lightweight.
- Support – New Balance shoes for Drop Foot have a midsole shank for structure and support, and some models have a molded heel. You also get models with Rollbar technology.
- Outsole – The outsole will be rubber or and Ndurance high abrasion rubber. For the outdoor shoes, the tread will have better traction.
- Options – New Balance shoe models mostly offer wider options and many more colors from which you can choose.
- Other – As you will see I have chosen many Medicare / HCPCS code = A5500 rated models, that may be eligible for Medicare reimbursement.
Reviews: The Best New Balance Shoes for Drop Foot
In our List, you will find some of the best available New Balance Shoe models for Drop Foot;
1
Drop Foot Walking Shoe
- The New Balance 813 is a comfortable orthopedic shoe with easy Velcro closure and stability features for drop foot.
- It has leather uppers with an adjustable hook and loop closure for easier access.
- There is a cushioned footbed and rollbar technology for support and stability.
- The heel offers a snug fit to reduce ankle movement.
- The shoe has a durable rubber outsole.
2
Velcro Shoes for Drop Foot
- The New Balance 577 similarly has a hook and loop closure for easier access and a better fit.
- It has ABZORB cushioning and leather uppers.
- There is a PU midsole for stable support.
- They are Medicare / HCPCS code = A5500, rated shoes that may be eligible for Medicare reimbursement.
3
Drop Foot Trail Walking Shoes
- The Walking boot from New Balance offers excellent ankle support for drop foot.
- They have leather uppers and waterproof internal bootees.
- There is a foam collar and cushioned footbed.
- The outsole is a durable rubber.
- The boots are ideal for trail walking and hiking.
4
Shoe for Drop Foot
- The 990V5 sneaker has a comfortable fit and cushioning for Drop feet.
- They have a supportive fit and ENCAP lightweight midsole, with a cushioned insole.
- The uppers are durable leather and mesh.
- There is a Blown rubber outsole and a dual-density foam collar for a more stable ankle fit.
5
Shoes for Drop Foot
- The New Balance running shoes offer a secure fit and comfort features for drop foot.
- They have synthetic and mesh uppers with a smooth lining.
- The collar is padded, and the heel offers a snug fit.
- There is an ENCAP midsole and rollbar technology for stability.
6
Drop Foot Velcro Shoe
- The 928V3 is another hook and loop model for Drop Foot.
- It has leather uppers and Velcro hook, and a loop closure.
- Inside is a removable cushioned, PU footbed allowing you to use your orthotics.
- The outsole is durable rubber and very stable.
Index Table: Top Rated New Balance Shoes for Drop Foot
| No. | Shoe | Men ♂ | Women ♀ | Features | Brand | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | New Balance® - Drop Foot Walking Shoe |  |  |
| New Balance | 98 |
| 2 | New Balance® - Velcro Shoes for Drop Foot |  |  |
| New Balance | 97.9 |
| 3 | New Balance® - Drop Foot Trail Walking Shoes |  |  |
| New Balance | 98 |
| 4 | New Balance® - Shoe for Drop Foot |  |  |
| New Balance | 97.7 |
| 5 | New Balance® - Shoes for Drop Foot |  |  |
| New Balance | 97 |
| 6 | New Balance® - Drop Foot Velcro Shoe |  |  |
| New Balance | 97 |
Table of Contents
- Drop Foot Symptoms and Causes
- Shoes for Drop Foot
- Features of a Good New Balance Shoe for Drop Foot
- Reviews: The Best New Balance Shoes for Drop Foot
- Index Table: Top Rated New Balance Shoes for Drop Foot
