From labour room to rehabilitation: foot drop following vaginal delivery — a case report of two cases

Auxeelia Packia Devi R. Rathinasamy; Kanmani Parivallal

doi:10.18203/2320-1770.ijrcog20263465

Authors

Auxeelia Packia Devi R. Rathinasamy Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, RGGWCH, Puducherry, India
Kanmani Parivallal Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, RGGWCH, Puducherry, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/2320-1770.ijrcog20263465

Keywords:

Postpartum neuropathy, Foot drop, Common peroneal nerve palsy, Vaginal delivery, Obstetric palsy

Abstract

Postpartum peripheral nerve injuries are uncommon neurological complications that may result in significant functional impairment. They can occur following vaginal delivery due to compression, traction, or prolonged positioning during labour, and may present as lower-limb weakness or foot drop. The common peroneal nerve is particularly vulnerable because of its superficial course around the fibular neck. We report two cases of postpartum foot drop following vaginal delivery in the absence of regional anaesthesia. The cases highlight the importance of recognizing obstetric peripheral nerve injuries, performing careful neurological assessment, localizing the site of nerve involvement, and excluding alternative neurological causes. Both patients were managed conservatively with neurological evaluation and rehabilitation, with subsequent clinical improvement. Awareness of postpartum nerve injuries and early initiation of appropriate rehabilitation may facilitate functional recovery and improve maternal outcomes.

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