Spine Basics: Sciatica

Sciatic Nerve in the Leg



The sciatic nerve is located in the buttock behind the hip joint, courses down behind the thigh bone into the back of the knee where it divides into two nerves which continue into the calf (lower leg). The sciatic nerve may be effected anywhere during its travel in the leg.

Possible causes of Sciatic Nerve Problems in the Leg   Nerves mimicking Spine origin sciatica
Trapping the Nerve in the Tissues (Entrapment)
Trauma
Tumor
Infection
Ischemia (lack of blood flow)
Neuropthy (Nutrition, Diabetes, Alcohol)
Obturator
Saphenous
Femoral
Iliohypogastric
Ilioinguinal
Lateral femoral cutaneous
Sciatic (Piriformis)
Sciatic (Thigh and Knee)
Peroneal
Tibial

Many potential explanations exisit in the leg that might mimick sciatica from the spine.

 
Sciatica Introduction
Sciatica Anatomy
Sciatica Overview
Sciatic Nerve in the Spine
Sciatic Nerve in the Pelvis
Sciatic Nerve in the Leg