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Nerve to Quadratus Femoris

nervus musculi quadrati femoris

The nerve to quadratus femoris arises from the ventral divisions of L4, L5, and S1 of the sacral plexus. It exits the pelvis through the greater sciatic foramen below the piriformis, passes anterior to the sciatic nerve and the superior and inferior gemelli, and enters the deep surface of the quadratus femoris muscle. It also supplies a branch to the inferior gemellus and articular branches to the posterior hip joint.

Region: Pelvis & Hip

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The nerve to quadratus femoris travels anterior to the sciatic nerve in the deep gluteal space, making it relevant in posterior hip surgical approaches. Its articular branches to the hip joint are one of the sensory pathways for posterior hip pain. In ischiofemoral impingement, where the quadratus femoris is compressed between the lesser trochanter and ischium, this nerve may be involved in the pain mechanism. Electrodiagnostic assessment of the nerve to quadratus femoris helps localise sacral plexus injuries.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Ischiofemoral Impingement Neuropathy

Compression of the quadratus femoris and its nerve between the lesser trochanter and ischial tuberosity contributes to deep posterior hip pain with a neurogenic component, producing pain that worsens with hip extension and internal rotation in narrow ischiofemoral space anatomy.