The exact location of the symptoms of sciatica would be determined by which neurons are compressed; in other words, which nerve root level is affected (from L4 to S3), and whether they are sensory or motor neurons.
Signs, symptoms, and assessment (diagnosis) of meralgia paresthetica
Meralgia paresthetica is primarily assessed by its clinical presentation of the client/patient reporting pain or other paresthesia in the lateral thigh.
