What causes foot drop? i just had a vaginal hysterectomy.

The M ost Common...: Cause of foot drop is a compression injury or trauma to the common peroneal nerve which lies to the outside of the head of the fibula, which is below the knee. It is possible, that during the hysterectomy, that one of the spinal roots was affected (l4) but highly unlikely. It could be resultant from anesthesia or other factors. Discuss with your surgeon.

Nerve trouble: Swelling around the nerve or nerve injury.

Nerve palsy: When the patient is positioned for a vaginal hysterectomy care is taken to prevent pressure on the nerves, especially those just below the knee on the outer aspect of the upper calf. If undue pressure does occur to those particular nerves, foot drop can occur - that could be temporary, but it is possible to have a permanent palsy.