Nerve
Common fibular (peroneal) nerve
Most commonly injured leg nerve
High-yield
Winds around the fibular neck (superficial and vulnerable); injury → foot drop, steppage gait, and sensory loss on the dorsum of the foot.
Overview
The smaller terminal branch of the sciatic nerve that wraps around the fibular neck and divides into deep and superficial fibular nerves.
Reference facts
- Roots
- L4, L5, S1, S2 (common fibular division of the sciatic)
- Course
- Follows the medial border of biceps femoris, then winds superficially around the neck of the fibula before dividing into deep and superficial fibular nerves
- Motor
- Anterior and lateral leg compartments (via its deep and superficial branches)
- Sensory
- Anterolateral leg and dorsum of the foot
Clinical correlation
The most commonly injured nerve in the lower limb (fibular neck fracture, tight cast) → foot drop.
Frequently asked questions
What are the roots of the common fibular (peroneal) nerve?
The common fibular (peroneal) nerve arises from L4, L5, S1, S2 (common fibular division of the sciatic).
What muscles does the common fibular (peroneal) nerve supply?
The common fibular (peroneal) nerve supplies the anterior and lateral leg compartments (via its deep and superficial branches).
What is the sensory distribution of the common fibular (peroneal) nerve?
The common fibular (peroneal) nerve carries sensation from the anterolateral leg and dorsum of the foot.
What is the course of the common fibular (peroneal) nerve?
Follows the medial border of biceps femoris, then winds superficially around the neck of the fibula before dividing into deep and superficial fibular nerves.