Paralysis of External Popliteal (Common Peroneal) Nerve

Neuritis or neuralgia of the external popliteal nerve without objective findings; mild, intermittent symptoms not affecting function.

Incomplete paralysis of external popliteal nerve: Mild. Slight weakness of ankle dorsiflexion and toe extension; mild sensory deficit on dorsum of foot; no significant foot drop.

Incomplete paralysis of external popliteal nerve: Moderate. Moderate weakness of dorsiflexion; partial foot drop requiring use of an ankle-foot orthosis (AFO); impaired sensation on dorsum of foot and lower leg.

Severe

Complete paralysis of external popliteal nerve: Complete foot drop (inability to dorsiflex or evert foot); steppage gait; complete sensory loss over dorsum of foot and anterolateral lower leg; requires rigid AFO to ambulate safely.