Also known as the anterior crural nerve, the femoral nerve is the largest branch of the lumbar plexus and supplies the muscle of the anterior compartment of the thigh (including the pectinus muscle) as well as skin areas on the front of the thigh, medial surface of the leg and foot.

This region is often attacked in grappling techniques used by jiu-jitsu and judo practicioners to 'break the guard' (applying pressure with the elbow to the inside of an opponent's thigh causes extreme discomfort, allowing one to remove oneself from between their legs).