Lateral dorsal cutaneous nerve

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Lateral dorsal cutaneous nerve

The lateral dorsal cutaneous nerve is a sensory nerve that is a continuation of the sural nerve. It provides sensory innervation to the skin on the lateral aspect of the foot and the lateral side of the fifth toe.

Anatomy

The lateral dorsal cutaneous nerve originates from the sural nerve, which itself is formed by contributions from the tibial nerve and the common fibular nerve. The sural nerve travels down the posterior aspect of the leg, and as it reaches the lateral side of the foot, it continues as the lateral dorsal cutaneous nerve.

Course

The lateral dorsal cutaneous nerve runs along the lateral side of the foot, providing sensory innervation to the skin in this region. It specifically innervates the lateral aspect of the foot and the lateral side of the fifth toe. This nerve is important for the sensation of touch, pain, and temperature in these areas.

Clinical Significance

Injury to the lateral dorsal cutaneous nerve can result in loss of sensation or neuropathic pain in its area of distribution. Such injuries can occur due to trauma, surgical procedures, or compression. Proper identification and preservation of this nerve are important during surgical interventions in the region to prevent sensory deficits.

Related Structures

• Sural nerve
• Tibial nerve
• Common fibular nerve
• Foot

See Also

• Peripheral nervous system
• Cutaneous innervation
• Neuropathy