Palmar Cutaneous Branch of the Median Nerve - Podcast Version 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The palmar cutaneous nerve is a sensory branch of the median nerve that arises in the distal wrist. It supplies cutaneous innervation to the skin of the lateral palm and thenar eminence. 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 palmar cutaneous nerve arises from the radial aspect of the median nerve in the distal wrist (~5cm proximal to the wrist crease). It then courses distally, travelling between the tendons of palmaris longus and flexor carpi radialis. As the nerve reaches the flexor retinaculum, it moves superficially and pierces the deep fascia to reach the palmar surface. The nerve then divides into terminal branches to supply the lateral aspect of palm and thenar eminence. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 1The palmar cutaneous branch of the median nerve arises in the distal wrist the supplies innervation to the skin of the lateral palm Supply The palmar cutaneous branch of median nerve supplies cutaneous innervation to the skin over the lateral palm and thenar eminence. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 2Cutaneous innervation of the branches of the median nerve. Frequent questions What is the palmar cutaneous branch of the median nerve? The palmar cutaneous branch of the median nerve is a sensory nerve that provides cutaneous sensation to the skin of the lateral palm and thenar eminence. It arises in the distal wrist and plays a crucial role in sensory innervation. Where does the palmar cutaneous nerve originate? The palmar cutaneous nerve originates from the radial aspect of the median nerve approximately 5 cm proximal to the wrist crease. This location is significant as it marks the beginning of its course towards the palm. How does the palmar cutaneous nerve travel to its destination? The palmar cutaneous nerve travels distally between the tendons of the palmaris longus and flexor carpi radialis. As it approaches the flexor retinaculum, it pierces the deep fascia to reach the palmar surface. What areas does the palmar cutaneous branch supply? This nerve supplies sensory innervation to the skin over the lateral aspect of the palm and the thenar eminence. Its role is essential for the tactile sensation in these regions. Why is the palmar cutaneous branch clinically relevant? The palmar cutaneous branch is clinically relevant because it can be affected in conditions that cause median nerve compression, impacting sensory function in the palm. Understanding its anatomy helps in diagnosing and managing such conditions effectively. Rate This Article