What it means
Newer anatomy books call it fibular. The common peroneal nerve wraps around the top of the fibula just below the outside of the knee, close to the skin. Pressure there from a tight cast, a splint, a strap, leg stirrups in surgery or long periods of crossed legs can injure it, and the client may lose the ability to lift the front of the foot (foot drop).
For the nurse
Check that casts, splints, straps and positioning devices do not press on the outer knee. Ask the client to pull the toes up toward the nose, and check feeling on the top of the foot; report new numbness or weakness.
Remember it
Peroneal, like fibula, is on the outside of the leg.
At a glance
| Spanish | peroneo |
|---|
Easy to confuse with
perineal
Having to do with the perineum, the area between the genitals and the anus.
peritoneal
Having to do with the peritoneum, the thin lining of the belly cavity and the organs inside it.
Related terms
paralysis
Loss of the ability to move a part of the body, and sometimes loss of feeling in it.
perineal
Having to do with the perineum, the area between the genitals and the anus.
peritoneal
Having to do with the peritoneum, the thin lining of the belly cavity and the organs inside it.