Common peroneal nerve dysfunction is due to damage to the peroneal nerve leading to loss of movement or sensation in the foot and leg. Mild peroneal nerve injuries can cause numbness, tingling, pain and weakness. More severe injuries can be characterized by a foot drop, a way of walking that results from being unable to bend or flex the foot upward at the ankle.
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Symptoms
The peroneal nerve is a branch of the sciatic nerve. It supplies movement and sensation to the lower leg, foot and toes. Common peroneal nerve dysfunction is a type of peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage outside the brain or spinal cord). This condition can affect people of any age and cause numbness, tingling, burning of the leg. It can also cause drop foot where toes drag while walking.
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Causes
Common causes of damage to the peroneal nerve include the following: - Trauma or injury to the knee, or fracture of the fibula (a bone of the lower leg) - Use of a tight plaster cast (or other long-term constriction) of the lower leg - Crossing the legs or wearing high boots often - Pressure to the knee during deep sleep or coma - Injury during knee surgery Individuals who are very thin or who have certain autoimmune conditions, such as polyarteritis nodosa, are at an increased risk. Also, for those with nerve damage, such as from diabetes, we may need to call the PCP’s office.
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Treatment
Treatment aims to improve mobility and independence. Any illness or other cause of the neuropathy should be treated. Padding the knee may prevent further injury by crossing the legs, while also serving as a reminder to not cross your legs. And finally, there are various excellent ankle braces available for individuals with drop foot, to help them stay steady and not fall. It is recommended that you seek professional skin and nail care if you have any type of lower limb neuropathy.
