Lateral plantar nerve

Lateral Plantar Nerve

The Lateral Plantar Nerve is a branch of the Tibial Nerve, which is itself a branch of the Sciatic Nerve. It is responsible for providing sensory and motor innervation to various structures in the foot.

Anatomy

The Lateral Plantar Nerve originates from the Tibial Nerve just below the medial malleolus, which is the bony prominence on the inner side of the ankle. It then travels along the medial side of the foot, deep to the abductor hallucis muscle. As it courses distally, it gives off several branches that innervate different structures.

Function

The Lateral Plantar Nerve provides both sensory and motor innervation to the foot. Sensory fibers from the nerve supply the skin on the lateral aspect of the sole of the foot, including the fifth toe and half of the fourth toe. Motor fibers innervate the muscles of the foot, including the abductor digiti minimi, flexor digiti minimi brevis, and quadratus plantae muscles.

Clinical Significance

Injury or compression of the Lateral Plantar Nerve can result in various symptoms and conditions. One common condition is called Lateral Plantar Nerve Entrapment, which can cause pain, numbness, and tingling in the lateral aspect of the foot. This condition is often associated with activities that involve repetitive or prolonged pressure on the foot, such as running or wearing tight shoes.

Treatment

Treatment for Lateral Plantar Nerve Entrapment typically involves conservative measures such as rest, ice, and the use of supportive footwear. Physical therapy exercises may also be recommended to improve foot strength and flexibility. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to release the entrapped nerve.

See Also

• Tibial Nerve
• Sciatic Nerve