The peroneal nerve is on the outside of the fibula just below the knee. Pressure to the peroneal nerve, as you might experience if you sit with your legs crossed for too long, can trigger temporary foot drop.
What are symptoms of peroneal nerve damage?
When the nerve is injured and results in dysfunction, symptoms may include:
- Decreased sensation, numbness, or tingling in the top of the foot or the outer part of the upper or lower leg.
- Foot that drops (unable to hold the foot up)
- "Slapping" gait (walking pattern in which each step makes a slapping noise)
Where is the peroneal nerve located?
The common peroneal nerve is the lateral division of the sciatic nerve. It courses from the posterolateral side of the knee around the biceps femoris tendon and the fibular head to the anterolateral side of the lower leg.
