Palmar branch

Palmar Branch

The Palmar Branch refers to a specific part of the ulnar nerve or the median nerve that provides sensory innervation to the palm of the hand. The palmar branch of the ulnar nerve and the palmar branch of the median nerve are both crucial components of the peripheral nervous system, playing a significant role in the sensory and motor functions of the hand.

Anatomy

The palmar branch of the ulnar nerve originates from the ulnar nerve, one of the three main nerves in the arm. It branches off just above the wrist and travels into the hand, providing sensory innervation to the skin of the hypothenar eminence and the palmar surface of the little finger and half of the ring finger.

The palmar branch of the median nerve, on the other hand, arises from the median nerve, another major nerve in the arm. It branches off at the level of the wrist and provides sensory innervation to the skin of the thenar eminence and the palmar surface of the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and half of the ring finger.

Clinical Significance

Damage or injury to the palmar branches can result in a variety of clinical conditions, including carpal tunnel syndrome, ulnar nerve entrapment, and nerve injury. These conditions can lead to symptoms such as numbness, tingling, pain, and weakness in the hand and fingers.

See Also

• Ulnar nerve
• Median nerve
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Ulnar nerve entrapment
• Nerve injury