Corpus: Lateral femoral cutaneous nerve

The lateral femoral cutaneous nerve originates from the lumbar plexus, specifically from segments L2 and L3, and is responsible for carrying general somatosensory fibers.

This nerve begins its course posterior to the psoas major muscle, subsequently running anteriorly beneath the iliacus muscle fascia towards the anterior superior iliac spine. It traverses the muscular lacuna beneath the fascia lata, extending to the lateral aspect of the thigh. Some of its terminal branches contribute to the patellar plexus.

The lateral femoral cutaneous nerve provides sensory innervation to the skin of the lateral thigh.

During its route through the lacuna musculorum just below the inguinal ligament, the nerve undergoes a significant bend of approximately 80 degrees. This angulation subjects the nerve to stretching during hip joint extension. At this juncture, the protective adipose layer is minimal, which may predispose the area to sensory disturbances or neuropathic pain in the lateral thigh region.