[Acute and subacute leg and foot paralysis of radicular origin: clinical aspects, examination technique and differential diagnosis of root syndromes].

We describe symptoms and physical findings consistent with acute or subacute radicular lesions in the lower limb: radicular pain syndromes in the leg and the motor as well as sensory deficits of lumbar and sacral roots L2 to S1. We emphasize the importance of anterior thigh pain which is not sufficiently known, and we point out our neurological findings which do not correspond to descriptions in standard textbooks. Aids to the examination of these radicular syndromes are given, stressing the technique of examining motor signs. We also discuss the differential diagnosis to other, nonradicular syndromes and we present practical guidelines. Finally, surgical emergencies of practical importance are pointed out.