The evaluation of foot drop begins with a medical history and physical examination.

Physical findings in someone with foot drop include:

• The inability to elevate (dorsiflex) the foot
• Foot numbness:
• Across the top of the foot

Testing may be necessary to make the diagnosis of foot drop.

Tests that may be used to evaluate foot drop include:

• Electromyogram or EMG
• Nerve conduction studies
• Nerve biopsy
• CT scan of the spine
• MRI scan of the spine
• Bone scan
• Glycosylated hemoglobin (hemoglobin A1c)
• Blood levels of vitamin B12 and folic acid
• Drug screen
• Lumbar puncture:
• A spinal tap may detect infections and degenerative conditions of the nervous system
• Blood VDRL screening for syphilis