Posterior branch of obturator nerve

Posterior branch of obturator nerve

The Posterior branch of obturator nerve is a significant part of the human anatomy, specifically the nervous system. It is a branch of the obturator nerve, which is itself a part of the lumbar plexus.

Etymology

The term "obturator" originates from the Latin word "obturare", which means to obstruct or close up. This is in reference to the function of the obturator muscles, which close up the obturator foramen.

Anatomy

The posterior branch of the obturator nerve typically arises from the anterior division of the obturator nerve. It descends anterior to the obturator externus and posterior to the adductor brevis. It then descends on the anterior surface of the adductor magnus, where it is distributed to the hamstring part of this muscle and the knee joint.

Function

The posterior branch of the obturator nerve provides sensory innervation to the skin over the medial aspect of the thigh. It also provides motor innervation to the adductor muscles of the thigh, including the adductor magnus, adductor brevis, and gracilis.

Clinical significance

Damage to the obturator nerve, including its posterior branch, can result in obturator nerve entrapment. This condition can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the inner thigh, and can be caused by various factors such as trauma, surgery, or the presence of a mass or tumor.

See also

• Obturator nerve
• Lumbar plexus
• Obturator foramen
• Obturator externus
• Adductor brevis
• Adductor magnus
• Gracilis muscle

References

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