Subcostal nerve

The Subcostal Nerve is the twelfth thoracic nerve (T12) and is the last of the thoracic nerves. It is a part of the Peripheral Nervous System and is responsible for innervating the abdominal muscles and skin.

Etymology

The term "Subcostal" is derived from Latin, where "sub" means under and "costa" refers to the rib. Hence, the term "Subcostal Nerve" refers to the nerve that runs under the rib.

Anatomy

The Subcostal Nerve originates from the anterior rami of the T12 spinal nerve. It runs along the inferior margin of the 12th rib and continues into the abdominal wall. It provides motor innervation to the transversus abdominis and internal oblique muscles, and sensory innervation to the skin of the anterior abdominal wall and the groin.

Clinical Significance

Damage to the Subcostal Nerve can result in abdominal pain or numbness. This can occur due to trauma, surgery, or conditions such as herpes zoster.

Related Terms

• Thoracic nerves
• Peripheral Nervous System
• Abdominal muscles
• Transversus abdominis
• Internal oblique muscle
• Groin

See Also

• Intercostal nerves
• Spinal nerves
• Nervous system

Subcostal nerve

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  Diagram of the nervous system
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