Peroneal neuropathy misdiagnosed as L5 radiculopathy: a case report.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

The purpose of this case report is to describe a patient who presented with a case of peroneal neuropathy that was originally diagnosed and treated as a L5 radiculopathy.

CLINICAL FEATURES:

A 53-year old female registered nurse presented to a private chiropractic practice with complaints of left lateral leg pain. Three months earlier she underwent elective left L5 decompression surgery without relief of symptoms.

INTERVENTION AND OUTCOME:

Lumbar spine MRI seven months prior to lumbar decompression surgery revealed left neural foraminal stenosis at L5-S1. The patient symptoms resolved after she stopped crossing her legs.

CONCLUSION:

This report discusses a case of undiagnosed peroneal neuropathy that underwent lumbar decompression surgery for a L5 radiculopathy. This case study demonstrates the importance of a thorough clinical examination and decision making that ensures proper patient diagnosis and management.

• Authors: Michael D Reife, Christopher M Coulis
• Journal: Chiropractic & manual therapies (Chiropr Man Therap) Vol. 21 Issue 1 Pg. 12 (Apr 22 2013) ISSN: 2045-709X [Print] England
• PMID: 23618508 (Publication Type: Journal Article)