Common palmar digital nerves of median nerve

Common palmar digital nerves of the median nerve are the terminal branches of the median nerve in the hand that innervate the skin of the lateral three and a half fingers on the palmar aspect and the nail beds. These nerves are crucial for the sensory innervation of the hand, playing a significant role in the tactile function and fine motor control.

Anatomy

The median nerve, a major nerve of the upper limb, enters the hand through the carpal tunnel, formed by the carpal bones and the transverse carpal ligament. After passing through the carpal tunnel, the median nerve divides into terminal branches, including the common palmar digital nerves. These nerves further divide into proper palmar digital nerves, which innervate specific areas of the fingers.

Each common palmar digital nerve runs along the palm of the hand, giving off branches to the skin, the palmar digital veins, and the superficial palmar arch. The distribution of these nerves is specific: they primarily innervate the palmar aspect of the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and the lateral half of the ring finger. Additionally, they provide sensory innervation to the nail beds of these fingers.

Function

The primary function of the common palmar digital nerves of the median nerve is sensory innervation. They allow for the sensation of touch, pain, and temperature in the fingers. This sensory feedback is essential for performing fine motor tasks and for protecting the hand from injuries by detecting harmful stimuli.

Clinical Significance

1. 1. 1. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome###

One of the most common conditions associated with the median nerve and its branches, including the common palmar digital nerves, is carpal tunnel syndrome. This condition results from compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel, leading to pain, numbness, and tingling in the distribution area of the nerve.

1. 1. 1. Injuries###

Injuries to the median nerve can result in loss of sensation in the areas innervated by the common palmar digital nerves. Such injuries can occur due to trauma, surgical complications, or repetitive strain. Diagnosis is typically made through clinical examination and confirmed with nerve conduction studies.

Treatment

Treatment of conditions affecting the common palmar digital nerves depends on the underlying cause. In the case of carpal tunnel syndrome, options include splinting, steroid injections, and, in severe cases, surgical decompression. For injuries, treatment may involve rest, physical therapy, and, in some cases, surgical repair.

See Also

• Nerve injury
• Hand anatomy
• Sensory nerves of the hand