Nerve Compression/Entrapment Sites of the Lower Limb

The nerves innervating the lower extremities arise from the lumbosacral plexus. They are vulnerable along their course to compression from common sites of anatomic entrapment to a trauma and iatrogenic injury. The major nerves supplying the lower extremities are the ilioinguinal, iliohypogastric, genitofemoral, femoral, obturator, lateral femoral cutaneous, sciatic (with its major divisions, the fibular and tibial nerves), and the superior and inferior gluteal. The anatomical course and distribution of these nerves are discussed with common areas of entrapment, etiologies, and clinical presentation. Imaging studies and electrophysiological studies are useful in detecting or confirming these injuries and may predict prognosis. Management consists of symptomatic and supportive measures, injections, and surgical interventions.