The common nerve, more accurately referred to as the common peroneal nerve (also known as the common fibular nerve), is a major nerve that innervates the lower leg and foot. It's one of two main branches of the sciatic nerve, receiving fibers from the posterior divisions of the L4 through S2 spinal nerves.
Anatomy and Function
- Location: The common peroneal nerve originates from the sciatic nerve and wraps around the head of the fibula. It can be palpated behind the head of the fibula and as it winds around the neck of the fibula.
- Innervation: This nerve innervates several muscles, including the short head of the biceps femoris (a hamstring muscle involved in knee flexion). It's crucial for controlling movement and sensation in the lower leg and foot.
- Sensory Role: The common peroneal nerve plays a vital sensory role, providing feeling to parts of the lower leg and the top of the foot.
Dysfunction and Related Conditions
Damage to the common peroneal nerve (common peroneal nerve dysfunction) leads to loss of movement or sensation in the foot and leg. This can result from various causes, including injury or compression.
Note that the term "common nerve" is not a precise anatomical term. It's essential to use the correct anatomical name, such as common peroneal nerve or common fibular nerve, for accurate communication. The provided references detail the common peroneal nerve as a specific and important nerve in the lower limb. Other nerves exist within the body, and specifying which nerve is intended is necessary for accurate identification and discussion.
