To provide insight into the aetiology of acute bilateral foot drop from degenerative spinal causes and present a clear framework for understanding this rare clinical presentation.
Key Findings:
The mean age at presentation was 52.1 years, with a predominance of male patients.
All patients presented with radiculopathy; three also had concomitant cauda equina syndrome.
Six out of seven cases exhibited less than antigravity power at presentation.
Post-surgery, five out of seven cases achieved full resolution of ankle dorsiflexion paresis.
Interpretation:
Acute bilateral foot drop can occur due to degenerative spinal disease, with patients showing varying levels of recovery post-surgery, indicating the need for tailored rehabilitation strategies. The presence of cauda equina syndrome is not always associated with foot drop.
Limitations:
The small sample size limits generalizability of the findings.
Retrospective data collection may introduce bias, potentially affecting the reliability of the conclusions drawn.
Conclusion:
Acute bilateral foot drop due to degenerative spinal disease is rare but can lead to significant recovery post-surgery. Awareness of this condition is crucial for timely diagnosis and intervention, which can greatly improve patient outcomes.
