Superficial 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 superficial branch of the ulnar nerve is a mixed nerve of the hand. It supplies motor innervation to the palmaris brevis and sensation to the volar surface of the medial one and a half fingers. 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 superficial branch of the ulnar nerve arises within Guyon’s canal at the distal border of the flexor retinaculum. It passes into the palm, travelling within the subcutaneous tissue of the hand and located medial to the ulnar artery. It provides a branch to the palmaris brevis muscle and then terminates by dividing into palmar digital nerves – which supply sensation to the volar surface of the medial one and half digits (little finger and medial half of the ring finger). By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 1Superficial branch of the ulnar nerve Pro Feature - Dissection Atlas Superficial dissection of the hand and wrist - demonstrating the median nerve, ulnar nerve and arterial supply. Superficial dissection of the hand and wrist - demonstrating the median nerve, ulnar nerve and arterial supply. You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our Dissection Image Library Enhance your understanding with high-resolution dissection images showcasing real-life anatomy. Learn More Motor Supply The superficial branch of the ulnar nerve provides motor innervation to the palmaris brevis muscle. Sensory Supply The superficial branch of the ulnar nerve provides sensory innervation to the volar surface of the medial one and half digits. It does this via two branches: Proper palmar digital nerve – supplies the volar surface of the medial half of the little finger. Common palmar digital nerve – divides into two palmar digital nerves, which supply the volar surfaces of the lateral half of the little finger and medial half of the ring finger. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 2Cutaneous innervation of the sensory branches of the ulnar nerve Frequent questions What is the function of the superficial branch of the ulnar nerve? The superficial branch of the ulnar nerve provides motor innervation to the palmaris brevis muscle and sensory innervation to the volar surface of the medial one and a half fingers. This dual role is essential for both movement and sensation in the hand. Where does the superficial branch of the ulnar nerve originate? The superficial branch of the ulnar nerve arises within Guyon's canal at the distal border of the flexor retinaculum. It then travels into the palm, positioned medial to the ulnar artery. What areas of the hand receive sensory innervation from the superficial branch of the ulnar nerve? This nerve supplies sensation to the volar surface of the medial one and a half digits, specifically the little finger and the medial half of the ring finger. It achieves this through its branches, which include the proper and common palmar digital nerves. What muscles are innervated by the superficial branch of the ulnar nerve? The superficial branch of the ulnar nerve innervates the palmaris brevis muscle. This motor supply is crucial for the muscle’s function in the hand. How does the superficial branch of the ulnar nerve divide in the palm? In the palm, the superficial branch divides into palmar digital nerves, which provide sensory innervation to the volar surfaces of the little finger and the medial half of the ring finger. This branching is vital for tactile sensation in these areas. Rate This Article