Cluneal nerves: a concise encyclopedic review with relevance in physiotherapy

Due to their characteristic anatomical course and close relationships with osseous and fascial structures, cluneal nerves are particularly susceptible to mechanical irritation or entrapment, potentially resulting in clinical presentations that mimic other musculoskeletal, radicular, or perineal pain conditions. The aim of this paper is to provide a concise, encyclopedic review of the cluneal nerves, with emphasis on their anatomy, anatomical variability, and clinical relevance in physiotherapeutic practice. Particular attention is given to their origin, course, cutaneous distribution, and role in pain syndromes affecting the lower back and gluteal region. A detailed understanding of the anatomy and variability of cluneal nerves is essential for recognizing their role in lumbosacral, gluteal, and perineal pain syndromes. Increased awareness of these nerves may improve differential diagnosis and support more targeted physiotherapeutic assessment and management. Based on the author’s clinical experience, a thorough patient history focusing on the nature, character, location, and temporal pattern of pain remains a key element of assessment, as it helps determine the most appropriate direction of further clinical management. • This paper provides a concise anatomical and clinical overview of superior, middle, and inferior cluneal nerves. • This paper highlights anatomical variability and underrepresentation of cluneal nerves in classical literature. • This paper emphasizes the role of cluneal nerves in differential diagnosis of low back, gluteal, and perineal pain.