Foot drop is most commonly caused by damage to which nerve?

Foot drop is primarily associated with damage to the peroneal nerve due to its critical role in foot and ankle function. The peroneal nerve, a branch of the sciatic nerve, innervates several muscles responsible for lifting the foot and controlling the toes, particularly the muscles that enable dorsiflexion. Dorsiflexion is the movement that allows the foot to rise above the level of the ground during walking, which is essential for clearances when taking steps.

When the peroneal nerve is impaired, such as from trauma or compression, individuals experience difficulty in lifting the front part of the foot, leading to a condition known as foot drop. This results in a characteristic gait where the person may drag the foot or lift the knee higher than normal to avoid tripping.

Understanding the role of the other nerves listed: the tibial nerve primarily affects plantar flexion and sensation on the sole of the foot, the femoral nerve is involved in knee extension and hip flexion, and the sural nerve provides sensation to the back of the lower leg and foot, clarifies why they are not responsible for foot drop. Their functions do not align with the mechanisms required for foot dorsiflexion, which is specifically impacted by the per