Obturator nerve

Obturator Nerve

The Obturator Nerve (pronunciation: ob-too-ray-tor nerv) is a significant nerve in the human body that originates from the Lumbar Plexus.

Etymology

The term "Obturator" is derived from the Latin word "Obturare" which means to obstruct or close up. This is in reference to the nerve's location in the obturator foramen, a hole located in the pelvic bone.

Anatomy

The Obturator Nerve is formed from the anterior divisions of the second, third, and fourth lumbar nerves. It descends through the fibers of the Psoas Major Muscle, and emerges from its medial border to pass behind the common iliac vessels. It then travels along the lateral wall of the lesser pelvis, above the obturator vessels, to the upper part of the obturator foramen. Here, it exits the pelvic cavity through the Obturator Canal.

Function

The Obturator Nerve is responsible for the sensory innervation of the skin of the medial aspect of the thigh. It also provides motor innervation to the adductor muscles of the lower limb, which are responsible for the adduction of the thigh.

Clinical Significance

Damage to the Obturator Nerve can result in a condition known as Obturator Nerve Entrapment. This condition can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the inner thigh and can affect the ability to adduct the thigh.

Related Terms

• Lumbar Plexus
• Psoas Major Muscle
• Obturator Canal
• Obturator Nerve Entrapment

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Obturator nerve
• Wikipedia's article - Obturator nerve

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