Functional outcome after peroneal nerve injury

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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.

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