The peroneal nerve, also known as the fibular nerve, is the nerve most commonly associated with causing foot drop.
Foot drop is a general term that describes difficulty lifting the front part of the foot. This can result in dragging the toes while walking, requiring the person to lift their leg higher than usual to clear the ground.
Understanding the Peroneal Nerve
The peroneal nerve is a branch of the sciatic nerve, which is a major nerve in the leg. The peroneal nerve provides movement and sensation to the lower leg, foot, and toes. Injury or compression of the peroneal nerve can disrupt its function, leading to foot drop.
Causes of Peroneal Nerve Injury
Several factors can lead to peroneal nerve damage and subsequent foot drop:
- Trauma: Direct blows to the fibula (outer bone of the lower leg) or knee, fractures, or dislocations can injure the peroneal nerve.
- Compression: Prolonged pressure on the nerve, such as from crossing the legs frequently, wearing tight casts or braces, or prolonged squatting or kneeling, can cause compression and damage.
- Surgery: Procedures involving the knee or hip may inadvertently stretch or cut the peroneal nerve.
- Nerve Disorders: Conditions like diabetes, which can cause peripheral neuropathy, can affect the peroneal nerve.
- Other Medical Conditions: Stroke, multiple sclerosis, and other neurological disorders can also contribute to foot drop.
- Tumors or Cysts: These can press on the peroneal nerve.
Other Nerves Involved (Less Commonly)
While the peroneal nerve is the most common cause of foot drop, damage to other nerves or parts of the nervous system can also contribute:
- Sciatic Nerve: Because the peroneal nerve is a branch of the sciatic nerve, injury higher up in the sciatic nerve can also cause foot drop, though other symptoms like pain in the buttock and back of the leg are usually present.
- Spinal Cord: Problems within the spinal cord itself can manifest as foot drop as well.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis of foot drop typically involves a physical examination, neurological assessment, and potentially imaging studies (like MRI) or nerve conduction studies. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include physical therapy, orthotics (such as ankle-foot orthoses or AFOs), nerve stimulation, or surgery in severe cases.
