Compression and entrapment neuropathies of the lower extremity.

Injury to a peripheral nerve from pressure placed on it causes a compression neuropathy. There are particular anatomic sites where individual nerves are most vulnerable. The authors describe the physiology and structural anatomy of peripheral nerves, the pathophysiology of nerve entrapment, and the classification of peripheral nerve injury. Specific compression and entrapment neuropathies of the lower extremity are described in detail.