Can the Phoenix Sign be Elicited With D5W

Elicitation of the Phoenix Sign With Non-guided Subcutaneous D5W Infiltration

To determine if the Phoenix sign can be reliably elicited with non-guided subcutaneous infiltration of D5W (5% Dextrose in Water) in patients with subclinical weakness of the extensor hallucis longus (EHL) muscle.

• To determine the prevalence of subclinical EHL weakness in a general clinical population
• To measure the time course of strength changes following D5W infiltration
• To identify potential predictive factors for positive response to treatment

Inclusion Criteria:

• subjects must have a weakness of dorsiflexion and specifically of the Extensor Hallucis Longus muscle
• drop foot

Exclusion Criteria:

• Trypanaphobia
• allergy to D5W