Question

The patient has been wearing clam shell orthosis for management of a diabetic plantar ulcer. He has recently begun to experience some weakness and foot drop which appears secondary to nerve pressure. Which nerve is most likely implicated?

Answer 1

The most likely nerve implicated in the patient's weakness and foot drop is the peroneal nerve. Compressed or damaged peroneal nerve can result in weakness and foot drop. Further examination and diagnostic tests may be necessary to confirm the nerve involvement.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most likely nerve implicated in the patient's weakness and foot drop is the peroneal nerve. The peroneal nerve, also known as the common fibular nerve, is a branch of the sciatic nerve. It provides motor innervation to the muscles that control ankle dorsiflexion and foot eversion.

In the case of the patient wearing a clam shell orthosis for a diabetic plantar ulcer, the pressure from the orthosis may have led to compression or damage of the peroneal nerve. This can result in weakness and foot drop, as the muscles innervated by the peroneal nerve are unable to function properly.

To confirm the exact nerve involvement and determine appropriate management, further examination and diagnostic tests, such as nerve conduction studies, may be necessary.