Sural nerve entrapment
The sural nerve provides sensation to your foot and its entrapment can lead to pain in the leg or foot area
About
The sural nerve is located in your lower leg. It lies very close to the short saphenous vein, which is a major vein located in your calf. It sends sensory information from the calf and foot to your brain. Entrapment is when the nerve gets pulled and trapped in scar tissue, usually following surgery.
Need to know
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Symptoms of sural nerve entrapment icon plus
- pain in the foot and/or leg
- pain in the Achilles heel
- numbness or tinging sensations in the affected area
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Diagnosis icon plus
Your consultant will speak to you about your symptoms and perform a physical examination of the affected part of your body. They may also perform the Tinel's test, which involves lightly tapping at the site of the nerve. If this causes tingling, pins and electric shocks, the test is positive. -
Potential treatment options icon plus
- Self-care measures such as not putting pressure on the affected area, elevating the foot and putting ice on it.
- Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Steroid injections to reduce inflammation and stress on the nerve.
- Surgery to release the entrapped nerve.
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This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.