Superficial Peroneal Nerve, Lateral View

Description

Shown from the lateral aspect of the male leg and foot, the superficial fibular (peroneal) nerve emerges in the distal third of the leg by piercing the deep (crural) fascia from the lateral compartment, then courses anterior to the lateral malleolus toward the dorsum of the foot. Proximally, its relationship to fibula and the peroneus longus and brevis muscle bellies is implied; distally, the nerve divides into medial and intermediate dorsal cutaneous branches that spread over the dorsal midfoot. The lateral column of the foot is outlined by the calcaneus, talus, cuboid, and fifth metatarsal, providing firm osseous landmarks for the nerve’s superficial course. Small terminal branches track toward the toes in the region of the metatarsals and phalanges. Surface anatomy matters here. The superficial fibular nerve is a common site of entrapment where it exits the fascia, producing pain or dysesthesia over the anterolateral leg and dorsum of the foot with relative sparing of the first web space (deep fibular nerve) and lateral margin of the foot (sural nerve). This lateral projection also aligns with operative planning around the lateral malleolus and hindfoot, where incisions for ankle arthroscopy portals, fibular fracture fixation, or lateral ligament reconstruction can cross variable dorsal cutaneous branches and create postoperative neuroma or numbness. Use this artwork to teach lower-limb peripheral nerve mapping in gross anatomy, physical examination courses, and podiatric or orthopedic training modules that emphasize sensory territories and safe incision placement around the ankle and midfoot. It also fits well in atlases, surgical approach guides, and patient-facing education on superficial peroneal neuropathy and dorsal foot paresthesia patterns. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.