sacral plexus
Quick Summary
The sacral plexus is a network of nerves formed by the ventral rami of spinal nerves L5 and S1–S3, with contributions from L4 and S4. This plexus innervates the gluteal muscles, muscles within the pelvic basin, and muscles that stabilize the hip joint. Cutaneous branches from the sacral plexus supply sensation to the buttocks, perineum, and the posterior thigh.1
The largest nerve in the body, the sciatic nerve, originates from the sacral plexus. It passes through the greater sciatic foramen and branches to innervate muscles in the thigh, leg, and foot. The sciatic nerve divides into the tibial nerve and the common fibular nerve, which further supply motor and sensory functions to the lower extremities. The lumbar plexus, formed by spinal nerves L1–L4, works in conjunction with the sacral plexus to provide innervation to the lower body.12
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