Which of the following nerves branches from the common peroneal nerve at the neck of the fibula?

The choice indicating the superficial peroneal nerve is the correct answer because this nerve is a branch of the common peroneal nerve, which itself is a division of the sciatic nerve. The common peroneal nerve typically bifurcates around the neck of the fibula into the superficial and deep peroneal nerves. The superficial peroneal nerve primarily provides sensory innervation to the dorsum of the foot and motor innervation to the lateral compartment of the leg, facilitating movement of the foot.

In contrast, the other choices do not originate from the common peroneal nerve. The medial plantar nerve branches from the tibial nerve, which is separate from the common peroneal nerve. The inferior gluteal nerve also arises from the sacral plexus, specifically the L5-S2 segments, and it innervates the gluteus maximus muscle. Lastly, the radial nerve is a branch of the posterior cord of the brachial plexus and is responsible for innervating the muscles of the posterior arm and forearm, thus having no connection to the common peroneal nerve or its branches. This context highlights the significance of the superficial peroneal nerve's origin and its functions in relation to the other