Entrapment of Sural Nerve

Wikis > Neurology > Nerve Entrapment > Entrapment of Sural Nerve

Entrapment of Sural Nerve

Uncommon. Anatomic variations in nerve are common. Originates from L5, S1 & S2.

Aetiology:
Nerve may be injured following trauma (eg fracture of fifth metatarsal, cuboid, calcaneus); rearfoot surgery (especially lateral ankle reconstructions; achilles tendon surgery; ankle arthroscopy) or ankle sprains (nerve entrapped in scar tissue); rupture of peroneal or achilles tendons (scarring); fibrosis from connective tissue disorder; not uncommon following surgery on lateral aspect of ankle. May also be a compression type neuropathy from inflamed peroneal or achilles tendon; ill fitting boots; compression stockings; tourniquets; chronic venous insufficiency ( engorged lessor saphenous vein).

Clinical features:
Altered sensation along lateral border of foot and posterior-lateral ankle – pain (usually burning) and numbness. Tinnel’s sign is often positive. May have swelling and tenderness plantar and posterior to lateral malleolus.

Differential diagnosis – S1 radiculopathy

Treatment:
Conservative not often successful – directed as cause  avoid what irritates nerve (eg boot, activities). NSAID’s; braces to stabilise ankle; physical therapy (heat, manual therapy); Surgical – nerve resected from scar or fibrotic tissue

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