Entrapment Neuropathies of The Lower Extremities
Date
2017-04-01
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Acıbadem Mehmet Ali Aydınlar Üniversitesi
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Peripheral nerves of the lower extremities might be compressed on their course where the anatomic configuration
puts them in a vulnerable position. Neuropathic states can also be the result of any kind of trauma which directly
injures the nerves or leads to a state of inflammation around the nerves. A wide variety of etiologies, as well as clinical
presentations, may lead to diagnostic challenges for the clinician. The main symptom of a peripheral neuropathy is
paresthesia. This could be accompanied by pain and numbness depending on the severity of the compression. The
lumbosacral plexus, which arises from the ventral rami of the L1-S3 roots, serves the lower extremities. There are par ticular anatomic sites where the nerves are more vulnerable. A clear identification of the anatomic course, and motor
and sensory distribution of each nerve arising from the lumbosacral plexus, is critical in localizing the injury and plan ning the optimal treatment. Electrodiagnostic studies help localize the site of the lesion, give a clue about the severity
and potential recovery, and help differentiate any plexopathy and/or radiculopathy. Imaging studies, mostly magnetic
imaging, can be ordered to help confirm the entrapment or exclude other pathologies. Most, but not all, of the cases
can be treated by conservative measures. Common entrapments of the lower extremities, namely, meralgia paresthe tica, femoral, obturator, sciatic, peroneal and tibial neuropathies will be discussed in this review.