Foot drop

Question 1

common cause of foot drop ?

Answer 1

common peroneal nerve lesion - the most common cause

L5 radiculopathy

sciatic nerve lesion

superficial or deep peroneal nerve lesion

other possible includes central nerve lesions (e.g. stroke) but other features are usually present

Question 2

peroneal nerve lesion often secondary to ?

Answer 2

compression at the neck of the fibula - by certain positions such as leg crossing, squatting or kneeling.

Prolonged confinement, recent weight loss, Baker’s cysts and plaster casts to the lower leg are also known to be precipitating factors.

Question 3

weakness of hip abduction and foot drop ?

Answer 3

suggestive of a L5 radiculopathy

Question 4

if the patient has an isolated peroneal neuropathy there will be weakness

Answer 4

foot dorsiflexion and eversion
Reflexes will be normal

Question 5

If the examination suggests a peroneal neuropathythen Mx

Answer 5

Leg crossing, squatting and kneeling should be avoided. Symptoms typically improve over 2-3 months