Functional outcome after peroneal nerve injury

Abstract

The objective of this study was to describe muscle strength, ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) use, walking ability, participation and quality of life in patients with peroneal nerve injury. A historic cohort study (n=27) was performed with a median follow-up time of 61 months (inter quartile range 37-91). Muscle strength was assessed using the Medical Research Council scale. Perceived walking ability was assessed with the Walking Questionnaire. AFO use and problems in participation were assessed with a structured interview. The RAND-36 Health Survey was used to evaluate health-related quality of life. Muscle strength improved significantly during follow-up but 62% (16 of 26 patients, one missing value) of the patients still had paresis to some degree of ankle dorsiflexors. AFO use decreased significantly but 11% (n=3) still used an AFO at follow-up. Two-thirds (n=18) of the study population experienced some limitations in walking and climbing stairs. Decreased maximum walking distance was reported by 59 % (n=16). About half of the patients (n=13) reported some restrictions in leisure activities and 47% (n=9) of the patients with a paid job (n=19) experienced some restrictions in work. Scores on the domains physical functioning, mental health, vitality, bodily pain and general health perception of the RAND-36 were significantly lower compared with a Dutch reference group. Limitations in walking ability and participation are frequently present 5 years after peroneal nerve injury. Health-related quality of life was lower than in a reference group.