A Rare Etiology of Bilateral Foot Drop: Weight Loss

Abstract

Excessive weight loss especially when it occurs in a short period of time can lead to some neurological problems including peroneal nerve palsy. Foot drop is the most common presentation of peroneal neuropathies and they rarely occur bilaterally at the same time. Herein, we presented a 46-year-old male patient who developed bilateral foot drop after losing 25 kgs. in two months with an intensive weight reduction diet which was advised by a doctor as a therapeutic regimen. The electromyographic study confirmed the bilateral entrapment neuropathy of the peroneal nerves at the fibular necks and these findings could not be attributed to any other factor except the weight loss. After a balanced diet and a physiotherapy programme, he recovered completely. This case highlights an uncommon but a well documented etiology of peroneal neuropathies. Being aware of this complication and close follow-up are important for the prognosis of these patients. Keywords: foot deformities, peroneal neuropathies, weight loss