Question

In a lateral popliteal nerve block, which sensory area is typically covered?

a) Medial aspect of the leg and foot
b) Anterior aspect of the thigh
c) Lateral aspect of the leg and foot
d) Posterior aspect of the thigh

Answer 1

A lateral popliteal nerve block typically covers the sensory area of the lateral aspect of the leg and foot, which is innervated by the common fibular (peroneal) nerve, a branch of the sciatic nerve.

Step-by-step explanation:

In a lateral popliteal nerve block, the sensory area that is typically covered is the lateral aspect of the leg and foot. This region is innervated by the sciatic nerve, more specifically, the common fibular (peroneal) nerve, which is a branch of the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve itself is a systemic nerve from the sacral plexus that travels across the hip joint and gluteal region into the upper posterior leg. It then branches into the tibial and fibular nerves, with the latter providing sensation to the lateral aspect of the leg and foot, which is why this area is anesthetized during a lateral popliteal nerve block.