Nervus plantaris lateralis

Nervus plantaris lateralis

The Nervus plantaris lateralis is a branch of the Nervus tibialis, which is a major nerve in the lower limb. It is responsible for providing sensory innervation to specific areas of the foot. In this article, we will explore the anatomy, function, and clinical significance of the Nervus plantaris lateralis.

Anatomy

The Nervus plantaris lateralis originates from the tibial nerve, which is a branch of the sciatic nerve. It arises in the popliteal fossa, located behind the knee joint. From there, it descends along the posterior aspect of the leg, passing through the tarsal tunnel, which is a fibro-osseous tunnel formed by the flexor retinaculum and the medial malleolus.

Upon entering the foot, the Nervus plantaris lateralis divides into several branches, which provide sensory innervation to specific areas. These branches include the medial calcaneal branches, the lateral calcaneal branches, and the lateral plantar branches.

Function

The Nervus plantaris lateralis primarily carries sensory information from the foot to the central nervous system. It provides innervation to the lateral aspect of the foot, including the lateral heel, the lateral sole, and the lateral toes. This sensory information allows for the perception of touch, pressure, temperature, and pain in these areas.

Additionally, the Nervus plantaris lateralis plays a role in proprioception, which is the body's ability to sense the position and movement of its parts. Proprioceptive information from the foot is important for maintaining balance and coordinating movements.

Clinical Significance

Injuries or compression of the Nervus plantaris lateralis can lead to various symptoms and conditions. Common conditions associated with this nerve include:

- Lateral plantar nerve entrapment: Compression or entrapment of the Nervus plantaris lateralis can cause pain, numbness, and tingling in the lateral aspect of the foot. This condition is often seen in athletes or individuals who engage in repetitive activities that put pressure on the nerve.

- Lateral plantar nerve neuritis: Inflammation of the Nervus plantaris lateralis can result in neuritis, which is characterized by pain, tenderness, and swelling along the course of the nerve. This condition can be caused by trauma, infection, or autoimmune disorders.

- Lateral plantar nerve neuropathy: Damage to the Nervus plantaris lateralis can lead to neuropathy, which is a dysfunction of the nerve. Symptoms may include numbness, weakness, and loss of sensation in the lateral foot.

See Also

• Nervus tibialis
• Sciatic nerve
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome