Sural nerve

A critical nerve that supplies sensation to the back of the lower leg and the lateral aspect of the foot.

The sural nerve is a sensory nerve in the lower leg, formed from the tibial and common fibular nerves, which branches off from the sciatic nerve. It primarily conveys sensory information from the skin of the calf and the outer side of the foot, playing a key role in proprioception and the perception of touch and pain.

Terminologia Anatomica

nervus suralis

System

Nervous system

Function

The primary function of the sural nerve is to provide sensory innervation to the skin on the posterior aspect of the lower leg and parts of the foot. It conveys signals from receptors in the skin to the central nervous system, allowing for the perception of various sensations, such as touch, temperature, and pain. This sensory input is vital for the balance and coordination of the lower limb. Additionally, by relaying information about the position of the foot and lower leg, it contributes to proprioceptive awareness, which helps maintain posture and prevent injuries during movement. Damage or irritation to the sural nerve can lead to numbness, tingling, and pain in the lateral aspect of the foot, reinforcing its importance in everyday mobility.

Location

The sural nerve is located in the posterior compartment of the leg, forming from the union of branches from the tibial and common fibular nerves, typically around the popliteal fossa, which is the region behind the knee. It travels down the leg, deep to the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles, before becoming more superficial towards the ankle. As it continues, it runs along the lateral aspect of the leg and into the foot, terminating at the heel and some areas of the lateral foot. Its location makes it easily accessible for clinical assessments, such as nerve conduction studies, highlighting its significance in diagnostic practices.

Did You Know?

The sural nerve is often used as a donor nerve for nerve grafting due to its relatively low impact on leg function when harvested.
In some individuals, the sural nerve can be absent or vary in its course and branching patterns, showcasing the body's anatomical diversity.
The sural nerve can be involved in certain neuropathies, leading to characteristic symptoms in the lateral foot, which can help clinicians in diagnosing underlying conditions.