Sciatic nerve and its branches (Latin)

The n. ischiadicus is formed within the pelvis from the anterior rami of nervi spinales L4-S3. It enters the lower limb by travelling through the foramen ischiadicum major of the posterior pelvis and inferior to, or occasionally through, the m. piriformis. After passing into the free lower limb, the n. ischiadicus passes down the posterior thigh supplying innervation to the art. coxae, the mm. ischiocrurales and ischiocondylar part of the m. adductor magnus. Just above the level of the knee, the n. ischiadicus divides into its two terminal branches; the n. tibialis and the n. fibularis/peroneus communis. The n. tibialis supplies motor and sensory innervation to the posterior leg and foot. The major branches of the n. tibialis are the n. suralis and the nn. plantares mediales/laterales. The n. fibularis communis quickly divides into the n. fibularis profundus and the n. fibularis superficialis; these nerves provide motor and sensory supply to the anterolateral aspects of the leg and the dorsum of the foot.