Pulse Routine: FOOT DROP

As performed by Guerrero Rehabilitation Clinic

Placing the Devices

For 1 Leg: Place the devices on your tib anterior. Ideally, you’ll want one device slightly below the top of the tib anterior (about 2-3 inches away from your knee) and one device about 3 inches below that.

For Both Legs Simultaneously: Place the devices in the middle of your tib anterior. Use the Pulse Straps if you have them for increased sensation and to ensure they stay as you move.

This Placement is used for all the exercises and recovery protocols below.

Exercises & Recovery

Below are two exercises and recovery protocol for improving function and mind-muscle connection to the affected muscles.

1. Foot Raises (Increase Muscle Engagement and Proprioception)

Setting Used: Performance Standard or Advanced-Calf

Sitting in a chair, flex your foot and point your toes upwards. If unable to do this use your other hand to flex your foot (assisted foot raise).

For video reference: Foot Raises & Assisted Foot Raises

Perform for a total of 10 times each foot for a total of 3 sets.

2. Dorsiflexion Focused Walking

Settings Used: Performance-Guided Reps Type 2 & 3 or Rehab-Strength Training

This exercise’s focus is to help retrain your walking muscles and the mind's connection to the muscles.

To perform time each step with the vibrations. Each time you lift a foot to take a step make a conscious effort to flex your tibialis anterior muscle by pointing your toe upwards at the top of each step.

For video reference: Dorsiflexion Placement and Walking Video

3. Decrease Tightness (For Those Who’ve Experienced Paralysis)

Setting Used: Recovery Type 3

Time Recommended: 15 Minutes

No movement required, these vibrations can be applied while sitting on the couch or wherever.

This setting uses a 100 Hz frequency, the same frequency used in the majority of current research on foot drop.

Can be used daily as well as before or after physical therapy.