What is the peroneal nerve?

Also known as: peroneal nerve injury, peroneal nerve palsy, peroneal nerve dysfunction, peroneal neuropathy

The peroneal nerve is an important nerve in the lower leg. It provides sensory input from the lateral aspect of the lower leg and the dorsum (top) of the foot. It also provides motor input to the muscles responsible for dorsiflexion (lifting the foot off of the ground) and eversion of the foot. When this nerve becomes injured, it can lead to sensation and movement problems, most commonly, a condition known as foot drop.


Reviewed by: Aaron Berger, MD

This page was last updated on: 1/29/2019 3:21:13 PM

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