Sciatic nerve injury following intramuscular injection: a case report and review of the literature

J Neurosci Nurs. 2006 Aug;38(4):238-40. doi: 10.1097/01376517-200608000-00006.

Abstract

A 25-year-old male patient presented with foot drop indicative of a sciatic nerve injury following gluteal intramuscular (IM) injections. Blood tests and magnetic resonance imaging of his spine were within normal limits, but electrophysiological studies confirmed a partial sciatic nerve lesion. The course of the sciatic nerve in the gluteal region places it at risk for injury from IM injections. Proper technique minimizes the risk of injury.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Electrophysiology
  • Gait Disorders, Neurologic / etiology
  • Humans
  • Injections, Intramuscular / adverse effects*
  • Injections, Intramuscular / methods
  • Injections, Intramuscular / nursing
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Neurologic Examination
  • Nurse's Role
  • Nursing Assessment
  • Physical Therapy Modalities
  • Risk Factors
  • Sciatic Nerve / injuries*
  • Sciatic Neuropathy / diagnosis
  • Sciatic Neuropathy / etiology*
  • Sciatic Neuropathy / prevention & control