You have the footdrop due to nerve damage. Yes, peripheral nerves can regenerate over time (slowly), but it all depends on the extent of nerve damage. And you can do all the exercises in the world and it will not strengthen your ankle dorsi flexion...it has a damaged nerve. There are no nerve impulses to the muscle. Your AFO is supporting your weak ankle, not causing your already weak ankle to become weaker. I suggest you wear your AFO as it sounds like you are setting yourself up for a nasty ankle sprain.
Why are you falling? Is it with your AFO on or off? Did they work on balance training?
Posted By M Scott PT on June 18, 2007 at 23:36:46:
In Reply to: foot drop, AFO and shortened heel cord
posted by JK on June 18, 2007 at 19:34:37: