Plantar digital nerves

The plantar digital nerves of the foot.

The Plantar Digital Nerves are a group of nerves located in the foot. They are branches of the Medial Plantar Nerve and the Lateral Plantar Nerve, which are themselves branches of the Tibial Nerve. The plantar digital nerves provide sensory innervation to the skin on the sole of the foot and the toes.

Anatomy

The plantar digital nerves are divided into medial and lateral groups. The medial group is derived from the medial plantar nerve, while the lateral group is derived from the lateral plantar nerve. Each group gives off four digital nerves, which run along the sides of the toes.

Diagram of the plantar digital nerves and their branches.

The medial plantar digital nerves innervate the skin on the medial three and a half toes, while the lateral plantar digital nerves innervate the skin on the lateral one and a half toes. In addition to providing sensory innervation, the plantar digital nerves also give off motor branches to the intrinsic muscles of the foot.

Clinical Significance

Damage to the plantar digital nerves can result in a condition known as Morton's Neuroma, which is characterized by pain and numbness in the toes. This condition is often caused by compression of the nerves due to tight shoes or high heels.

See Also

• Medial Plantar Nerve
• Lateral Plantar Nerve
• Tibial Nerve
• Morton's Neuroma

References

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