Dorsal Branch of the Ulnar Nerve - Podcast Version 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The dorsal branch of the ulnar nerve is a sensory nerve of the hand. It supplies sensation to the dorsal surface of the medial one and a half fingers and the associated dorsal hand area. Pro Feature - 3D Model You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our 3D Model Library Explore, cut, dissect, annotate and manipulate our 3D models to visualise anatomy in a dynamic, interactive way. Learn More Course The dorsal branch of the ulnar nerve arises approximately 5cm proximal to the wrist joint. It travels posteriorly, passing underneath the flexor carpi ulnaris. It then pierces the deep fascia to enter the dorsal and ulnar aspect of the hand. In the hand, the dorsal branch of the ulnar nerve terminates by dividing into sensory branches, which supply the dorsoulnar hand, little finger and medial half of the ring finger. Adobe Stock, Licensed to TeachMeSeries Ltd Fig 1Dorsal branch of the ulnar nerve Sensory Supply The dorsal branch of the ulnar nerve supplies sensation to: Dorsal surface of the little finger Dorsal surface of the medial half of the ring finger Ulnar aspect of the dorsum of the hand By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 2Cutaneous innervation of the ulnar nerve Frequent questions What is the dorsal branch of the ulnar nerve? The dorsal branch of the ulnar nerve is a sensory nerve that provides sensation to the dorsal surface of the little finger, the medial half of the ring finger, and the surrounding dorsal hand area. Where does the dorsal branch of the ulnar nerve originate? This nerve arises approximately 5cm proximal to the wrist joint, travelling posteriorly beneath the flexor carpi ulnaris before entering the hand. What areas does the dorsal branch of the ulnar nerve supply sensation to? It supplies sensory innervation to the dorsal surface of the little finger, the medial half of the ring finger, and the ulnar aspect of the dorsum of the hand. How does the dorsal branch of the ulnar nerve enter the hand? After piercing the deep fascia, the dorsal branch of the ulnar nerve divides into sensory branches that innervate the dorsoulnar aspect of the hand. What is the clinical significance of the dorsal branch of the ulnar nerve? Damage to this nerve can lead to sensory loss in the areas it supplies, affecting the sensation of the little finger and medial half of the ring finger, which may impact hand function. Rate This Article