Sciatic nerve

Definition

The sciatic nerve is the largest and longest nerve in the human body, running from the lower back through the buttocks and down each leg, responsible for sensory and motor functions in the thigh, knee, calf, ankle, foot, and toes. It plays a crucial role in connecting the spinal cord with the skin and muscles of the thigh, leg, and foot.

Related terms

Peripheral Nervous System:

The part of the nervous system that consists of nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord which convey information between central nervous system (CNS) and other parts of the body.

Sensory Neurons: Neurons that carry incoming information from sensory receptors to the CNS for processing.

Motor Neurons:

Neurons that convey signals from CNS to effectors such as muscles or glands to trigger action.