Dorsal digital nerves of radial nerve

Dorsal Digital Nerves of Radial Nerve

The dorsal digital nerves of the radial nerve are shown in this illustration from Gray's Anatomy.

The Dorsal Digital Nerves of Radial Nerve are a group of nerves in the human body that originate from the Radial Nerve. They are responsible for providing sensory innervation to the skin on the back of the hand and the dorsal aspects of the lateral three and a half fingers.

Anatomy

The dorsal digital nerves of the radial nerve are branches of the superficial branch of the radial nerve. They emerge just proximal to the wrist and divide into four branches. These branches provide sensory innervation to the dorsal surface of the thumb, the index finger, the middle finger, and the lateral half of the ring finger.

Function

The primary function of the dorsal digital nerves of the radial nerve is to provide sensory innervation to the skin on the back of the hand and the dorsal aspects of the lateral three and a half fingers. This includes the perception of touch, temperature, and pain.

Clinical Significance

Damage to the dorsal digital nerves of the radial nerve can result in sensory loss or paresthesia in the areas of the hand that these nerves supply. This can occur as a result of trauma, compression, or diseases such as Peripheral Neuropathy.

See Also

• Radial Nerve
• Peripheral Neuropathy
• Nervous System