Peroneal Nerve Injury: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
A peroneal nerve injury, also called a lateral popliteal nerve lesion, affects one of the major nerves that controls movement and sensation in the lower leg and foot. Damage to this nerve can result from trauma, pressure on the nerve, or other medical conditions.
When the peroneal nerve is injured, symptoms may include weakness or paralysis in the muscles of the lower leg and foot, difficulty walking or running, and instability of the ankle and foot. Numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation are also common. In some cases, people may develop “foot drop,” where the foot drags while walking due to lack of muscle control.
Treatment may include physical therapy, medications to manage symptoms, and sometimes surgery to repair or decompress the nerve. Working with a healthcare professional is important to restore mobility, prevent complications, and improve quality of life.