Superficial branch of lateral plantar nerve

The superficial branch of the lateral plantar nerve is a significant nerve in the foot that plays a crucial role in sensory innervation. It is a branch of the lateral plantar nerve, which itself is a branch of the tibial nerve.

Anatomy

The lateral plantar nerve divides into a deep and a superficial branch. The superficial branch further divides into two main branches:

• The lateral proper plantar digital nerve, which supplies the skin of the lateral side of the little toe.
• The common plantar digital nerve, which supplies the skin of the adjacent sides of the fourth and fifth toes.

Function

The superficial branch of the lateral plantar nerve is primarily responsible for providing sensory innervation to the skin of the lateral aspect of the sole of the foot, including the lateral side of the little toe and the adjacent sides of the fourth and fifth toes.

Clinical Significance

Injury to the superficial branch of the lateral plantar nerve can result in sensory deficits in its area of distribution. This can occur due to trauma, surgical complications, or compression. Symptoms may include numbness, tingling, or pain in the affected areas.

Also see

• Lateral plantar nerve
• Tibial nerve
• Medial plantar nerve
• Plantar fascia