Introduction The iliohypogastric nerve is a branch of the lumbar plexus, originating mainly from the L1 spinal nerve. It provides motor innervation to the lower abdominal muscles (such as the internal oblique and transversus abdominis) and sensory innervation to the skin over the lower abdomen and upper hip (gluteal) region. It plays a role in…
Introduction The perineal nerve is a big terminal branch of the pudendal nerve that normally begins during its passage through the pudendal canal or shortly after it exits the canal. The pudendal nerve travels to the perineum before splitting into two terminal branches: the superficial perineal nerve (superficial perineal branch) and the deep perineal nerve….
Introduction The sciatic nerve is the largest and longest nerve in the human body, originating from the lumbar and sacral spine (L4-S3). It runs through the buttocks and down the back of the leg, supplying motor and sensory function to the lower limbs. Compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve can lead to sciatica, causing…
Introduction The peripheral nervous system is made up of nerves that branch from the brain and spinal cord. These nerves connect the central nervous system to the rest of the body. The peripheral neural system is further separated into the somatic and autonomic nervous systems. The somatic nervous system is made up of nerves that…
Introduction The pudendal nerve is a major nerve in the pelvis, originating from the sacral plexus (S2-S4). It provides motor and sensory innervation to the perineum, including the external genitalia, anus, and pelvic floor muscles. It plays a key role in controlling bladder and bowel function, as well as sexual function. Injury or irritation of…
Introduction The celiac plexus, also known as the solar plexus, is a network of nerves located in the upper abdomen, near the aorta and behind the pancreas. It plays a key role in transmitting signals between the abdominal organs and the central nervous system. The celiac plexus is often targeted for nerve blocks to manage…
Introduction The intercostal nerves are a group of 11 pairs of nerves that originate from the thoracic spinal cord (T1 to T11). They run between the ribs, supplying the muscles of the chest wall and providing sensory information from the skin and pleura. The 12th pair, called the subcostal nerve, runs below the last rib….
Introduction The cervical plexus is a collection of cervical nerves created by the anterior (ventral) rami of spinal nerves C1-C4 (sometimes known as the first through fourth cervical nerves). The cervical plexus’ roots (limbs) are shown here. The 5th cervical nerve (the anterior ramus of spinal nerve C5) may also be regarded as a member…
Introduction The sacral plexus is a neural network made up of the lumbosacral trunk (L4, L5) and the sacral spinal nerves (S1–S4). The sacral plexus is situated on the posterior pelvic wall, behind the internal iliac arteries and ureter, and ahead of the piriformis muscle. The plexus has multiple branches, including anterior, posterior, and one…
Introduction The lumbar plexus is a neural network formed by the anterior rami of spinal nerves L1 through L4 and the anterior ramus of spinal nerve T12. It is situated on the posterior abdominal wall, anterior to the transverse processes of the lumbar vertebrae, and inside the posterior section of the psoas major muscle. The…
