There are no official guidelines to assist in answering this question. I will search for relevant research papers instead.
From the Research
Clinical Presentations of Mononeuropathy in the Lower Leg
The clinical presentations of mononeuropathy in the lower leg can vary depending on the specific nerve affected. Some common presentations include:
- Foot drop due to weakness of ankle dorsiflexion, which is a common presentation of peroneal neuropathy 1
- Floppy foot, buckling knee, or painful foot, which can be presentations of various lower limb mononeuropathies 2
- Weakness or numbness in specific areas of the lower leg, depending on the nerve affected
Diagnosis and Evaluation
Diagnosis of mononeuropathy in the lower leg can be challenging, but electrodiagnostic studies such as nerve conduction studies and needle electromyography can be useful in localizing the level of the abnormality and establishing a prognosis 3, 1, 2. A careful history, physical examination, and electrodiagnostic evaluation can help identify these neuropathies in a timely manner to administer the best treatment for resolution of symptoms 4.
Specific Mononeuropathies
Some specific mononeuropathies that can affect the lower leg include:
- Peroneal neuropathy, which can cause foot drop and is one of the most common focal mononeuropathies in the lower extremities 1, 5
- Tibial neuropathy, which can cause weakness or numbness in the foot or ankle 5
- Femoral neuropathy, which can cause weakness or numbness in the thigh or knee 5
- Sciatic neuropathy, which can cause weakness or numbness in the lower leg or foot 1