Deep branch of lateral plantar nerve

Illustration of the deep branch of the lateral plantar nerve.

The deep branch of the lateral plantar nerve is a significant nerve in the foot, responsible for innervating several muscles and contributing to the sensory and motor functions of the foot. It is a branch of the lateral plantar nerve, which itself is a branch of the tibial nerve.

Anatomy

The deep branch of the lateral plantar nerve originates from the lateral plantar nerve, which is one of the two terminal branches of the tibial nerve. The lateral plantar nerve divides into superficial and deep branches. The deep branch travels medially and anteriorly across the sole of the foot.

Course

The deep branch of the lateral plantar nerve runs deep to the flexor digitorum brevis muscle and then courses between the quadratus plantae and the adductor hallucis muscles. It continues forward, passing between the flexor hallucis brevis and the adductor hallucis.

Innervation

The deep branch of the lateral plantar nerve provides motor innervation to several intrinsic muscles of the foot, including:

• Adductor hallucis
• Flexor digiti minimi brevis
• Interossei muscles (both dorsal and plantar)

It also contributes to the innervation of the lumbricals of the foot.

Function

The primary function of the deep branch of the lateral plantar nerve is to facilitate movement and provide stability to the foot. It plays a crucial role in the complex movements required for walking, running, and maintaining balance. The muscles innervated by this nerve are involved in the adduction and abduction of the toes, as well as flexion of the small toe.

Clinical Significance

Injury or compression of the deep branch of the lateral plantar nerve can lead to weakness or paralysis of the muscles it innervates, resulting in difficulties with foot movement and stability. Conditions such as tarsal tunnel syndrome can affect this nerve, leading to pain and sensory disturbances in the foot.

Related Pages

• Lateral plantar nerve
• Tibial nerve
• Foot anatomy
• Plantar muscles