Palmar branch of the median nerve

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Palmar branch of the median nerve is a nerve in the human body that originates from the median nerve, which is one of the main nerves in the arm. The palmar branch of the median nerve provides sensory innervation to the skin of the central palm.

Etymology[edit | edit source]

The term "palmar" is derived from the Latin word "palma", which means palm of the hand. The term "branch" in this context refers to a part of a complex structure, such as a nerve, that divides into smaller parts. The term "median" is derived from the Latin word "medianus", which means situated in the middle. The term "nerve" is derived from the Latin word "nervus", which means sinew or string.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The palmar branch of the median nerve arises in the distal forearm, just above the flexor retinaculum. It then passes superficial to the flexor retinaculum and provides sensory innervation to the skin of the central palm. The nerve does not innervate the digits, which are innervated by the common palmar digital nerves, also branches of the median nerve.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Damage to the palmar branch of the median nerve can result in loss of sensation in the central palm. This can occur as a result of trauma, such as a fracture of the forearm, or due to compression of the nerve, such as in carpal tunnel syndrome. In carpal tunnel syndrome, the median nerve is compressed at the level of the wrist, which can result in symptoms in the hand. However, because the palmar branch of the median nerve passes over the carpal tunnel, it is often spared in carpal tunnel syndrome, preserving sensation in the central palm.

Related terms[edit | edit source]

Palmar branch of the median nerve Resources
Wikipedia
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD