Sciatic nerve
Sciatic Nerve
The Sciatic Nerve (pronounced: /saɪˈætɪk ˈnɜːrv/) is the largest and longest nerve in the human body. It originates in the lower back and runs through the buttock and down the lower limb.
Etymology
The term "sciatic" comes from the Latin word "sciaticus", which in turn is derived from the Greek word "ισχιαδικός" (iskhiadikos), meaning "pertaining to the hip". The term "nerve" comes from the Latin word "nervus", meaning "sinew, tendon, or string".
Anatomy
The sciatic nerve begins in the lower back, where it branches from the spinal cord. It travels through the pelvis, then deep into the buttock, down the back of the leg, and finally into the foot. It is responsible for the sensation and motor functions of the lower limb.
Related Terms
- Neurology: The branch of medicine dealing with the nervous system and its disorders.
- Neuropathy: A term that refers to general diseases or malfunctions of the nerves.
- Sciatica: Pain affecting the back, hip, and outer side of the leg, caused by compression of the sciatic nerve.
- Spinal Cord: The main pathway for information connecting the brain and peripheral nervous system.
- Pelvis: The lower part of the torso, between the abdomen and the thighs.
- Buttock: The back part of the human hip, which forms one of the rounded protuberances on which a person sits.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Sciatic nerve
- Wikipedia's article - Sciatic nerve
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