Peroneal Nerve InjuryHow to Say It: Purr–o-knee-al nerve injury
by
Cynthia M. Johnson, MA DefinitionA peroneal nerve injury is damage to the nerve on the outer part of the lower knee. This nerve sends impulses to and from the leg, foot, and toes. Damage can cause weakness, numbness, and pain. It may also make it hard for a person to lift their foot. CausesThe nerve may get injured due to:
Too much pressure on the nerve can also cause this problem. This can happen due to:
Risk FactorsThings that may raise the risk of this problem are:
SymptomsProblems may be:
DiagnosisThe doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. It will focus on the leg. Pictures of the leg may be taken. This can be done with: The nerves and muscles may be tested. This can be done with electromyography (EMG) or other nerve conduction tests. TreatmentTreatment depends on what has caused the injury. Options are:
People who are not helped by other methods may need surgery. It may take pressure off the nerve. PreventionTo lower the risk of a peroneal nerve injury:
RESOURCES:National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke http://www.ninds.nih.gov Ortho Info—American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons http://orthoinfo.org CANADIAN RESOURCES:The Canadian Orthopaedic Association http://www.coa-aco.org Health Canada https://www.canada.ca References:Foot drop information page. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke website. Available at:
https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/All-Disorders/Foot-Drop-Information-Page. Accessed October 6, 2020. Mononeuropathies. Merck Manual Professional Version website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Accessed October 6, 2020. Last reviewed September 2020 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Rimas Lukas, MD Last Updated: 10/6/2020 |
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