Peroneal nerve compression, or peroneal neuropathy, is a common condition that can cause weakness or paralysis in the lower leg and foot. The peroneal nerve runs down the outside of the leg and controls movement and sensation in the foot and ankle. Compression of this nerve can lead to pain and loss of mobility in the lower extremity. At The Nerve Institute, Dr. Mytien Goldberg, a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in nerve reconstruction, offers advanced treatments and personalized care for peroneal nerve compression in Los Angeles.
Peroneal Nerve Compression
Los Angeles
The Peroneal Nerve: Understanding the Nerve Anatomy
The peroneal nerve, also known as the fibular nerve, is a major nerve that arises from the sciatic nerve in the pelvis and travels down the back of the thigh and the outside of the leg. It divides into two branches, the deep peroneal nerve and the superficial peroneal nerve, which supply different muscles and areas of the lower leg and foot. The deep peroneal nerve controls movement and sensation in the front of the leg and the top of the foot, while the superficial peroneal nerve controls sensation in the lower leg and the outer part of the foot.
Symptoms of Peroneal Nerve Compression:
- Foot drop, or the inability to lift the foot upward
- Weakness or paralysis of the muscles in the front of the leg and the top of the foot
- Difficulty walking or running
- Numbness or tingling in the lower leg and foot, particularly on the outer side
- Pain or discomfort in the affected areas
- Loss of muscle tone in the affected leg and foot
- Difficulty fitting into shoes due to muscle atrophy or weakness
For more information on peroneal nerve compression in Los Angeles, contact us today for an appointment.
What is Peroneal Nerve Compression?
Peroneal nerve compression, or peroneal neuropathy, refers to a condition in which the peroneal nerve is compressed or damaged, leading to weakness or paralysis of the muscles it supplies and loss of sensation in the affected areas. Compression of the peroneal nerve can occur at various sites along its course, such as the knee or the ankle, and can result from factors such as trauma, injury, repetitive use, or compression from surrounding structures. Symptoms of peroneal nerve compression may include foot drop, the inability to lift the foot upward, and numbness or tingling in the affected areas.
Possible Causes of Peroneal Nerve Compression:
- Trauma or injury to the leg, knee, or ankle
- Repetitive use or overuse of the affected leg, such as in athletes or manual laborers
- Prolonged sitting or crossing of the legs
- Tight or constricting clothing or footwear
- Casts or braces that are too tight or improperly fitted
- Nerve damage or neuropathy from diabetes, alcoholism, or Guillain-Barre syndrome
- Tumors or other growths in the leg or surrounding tissues that put pressure on the nerve
- Structural abnormalities or variations in the course of the nerve
To learn more about how to alleviate peroneal nerve compression in Los Angeles, contact our office for an appointment.
What Happens When the Peroneal Nerve is Damaged
When the peroneal nerve is damaged, the muscles and skin it supplies may not function properly, leading to a range of symptoms. These can include weakness or paralysis of the muscles that lift the foot and extend the toes, causing foot drop and difficulty walking, as well as numbness or tingling in the affected areas. Over time, muscle atrophy and loss of sensation may occur, and the affected foot and leg may become more prone to injury or falls.
Peroneal Nerve Decompression: Surgical Intervention
Peroneal nerve decompression is a surgical procedure that involves relieving pressure on the peroneal nerve by removing or adjusting the structures that are compressing it. The procedure may involve an incision in the knee or ankle to access the affected nerve. The surgeon may remove or adjust any bony or soft tissue structures compressing the nerve, such as scar tissue, tumors, or abnormal bone growth.
Schedule Your Consultation With Dr. Goldberg
The Nerve Institute, led by Dr. Mytien Goldberg, offers advanced treatments and personalized care for peroneal nerve compression in Los Angeles. As a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in nerve reconstruction, Dr. Goldberg can provide expert diagnosis, treatment, and management of peroneal nerve compression. If you are experiencing symptoms of peroneal nerve compression or other peripheral nerve injuries, schedule a consultation with Dr. Goldberg to discuss your options.
