Palmar digital nerves

Palmar Digital Nerves

Diagram of the distribution of the cutaneous branches of the ulnar nerve. (Palmar digital nerves labeled at center right.)

The Palmar Digital Nerves are nerves in the hand that provide sensory innervation to the skin of the palm and fingers. They are branches of the Median Nerve and the Ulnar Nerve, two of the three major nerves of the arm.

Anatomy

The Palmar Digital Nerves branch off from the common palmar digital nerves, which are themselves branches of the median and ulnar nerves. Each finger, except for the little finger, is served by two palmar digital nerves, one on each side. The little finger is served by one palmar digital nerve from the ulnar nerve.

Function

The Palmar Digital Nerves are responsible for the sensation in the palmar aspect of the fingers and thumb. They carry sensory information from the skin to the brain, allowing for the sense of touch.

Clinical Significance

Damage to the Palmar Digital Nerves can result in loss of sensation in the affected areas of the hand. This can occur as a result of trauma, surgery, or conditions such as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

See Also

• Nervous System
• Peripheral Nervous System
• Sensory Nerves