A network of intersecting nerves is referred to as a nerve plexus. Nerves that serve the same part of the body merge into one large nerve or group of nerves via a plexus. The sacral plexus provides motor and sensory nerves for the pelvis, buttocks, genitals, thighs, calves, and feet.
It is one of the five major plexuses of the body. It rests on the piriformis muscle, in the hip area. Because the nerves of the sacral plexus impact a large part of the body, an illness or injury involving the sacral plexus is serious. The symptoms are weakness, loss of sensation, and/or pain in the lower parts of the body.
Electromyography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be used to confirm the diagnosis. Eletromyography is a diagnostic technique that involves recording and interpreting electrical activity occurring in muscles. An MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce images of structures inside the body.
Cancer patients receiving radiation therapy are at risk of damage to the sacral plexus, even if the radiation is directed at other parts of the body.
High blood sugar can interfere with the proper functioning of the sacral plexus. Better control of blood sugar levels will restore proper functioning of the sacral plexus.