Clinical localization · Core

A localization pathway for foot drop

Foot drop: fibular, sciatic or L5

Connect dorsiflexion, eversion, inversion and hip abduction.

3 learning sectionsCompiled 2026-09-08English edition · Traditional Chinese available

01Form a hypothesis from movement

  • Common fibular disease often weakens dorsiflexion and eversion while tibialis posterior inversion is relatively preserved.
  • L5 disease may also weaken inversion and hip abduction. Sciatic lesions may involve the tibial division.

02Conduction studies

  • Assess fibular EDB/TA, the across-head segment, tibial motor and lower-limb sensory responses.
  • Use age- and method-matched limits. An isolated low EDB amplitude is not the whole answer.

03Select muscles

  • TA, fibularis longus, tibialis posterior and TFL allow cross-nerve L5 comparisons.
  • The short head of biceps femoris, other hamstrings and paraspinals can further test sciatic and root hypotheses.

Related nerves

Common fibular nerveSciatic nerveSuperior gluteal nerve

Pause and explain

Explain in your own words: “Tibialis posterior and superior gluteal muscles are key comparisons outside the common fibular distribution.” Then think of a situation in which it could be misinterpreted.

Show a review prompt

Sensory sparing is not sufficient evidence for radiculopathy; assess the complete pattern.

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References and further reading

Educational synthesis; independent neuromuscular specialist review is pending. Publication dates and compilation dates are distinct. This is an original teaching synthesis; consult the source for complete methods and criteria.