Nerve
Median nerve
The 'labourer's nerve'
High-yield
Compressed in the carpal tunnel → thenar wasting and numbness of the lateral 3.5 digits (ape hand). 'LOAF' thenar muscles.
Overview
Formed by lateral and medial cords, it supplies most anterior forearm flexors, the thenar muscles, and lateral two lumbricals, and gives sensation to the lateral palm.
Learning this group? Read How to learn the brachial plexus.
Reference facts
- Roots
- C6, C7, C8, T1 (lateral and medial cords)
- Course
- Descends through the arm lateral then medial to the brachial artery, passes between the two heads of pronator teres, and travels through the carpal tunnel into the hand
- Motor
- Most anterior forearm flexors (except FCU and medial FDP), thenar muscles, and lateral two lumbricals
- Sensory
- Palmar lateral 3½ digits and their nail beds; lateral palm
Mnemonic
Median recurrent branch supplies LOAF: Lumbricals 1-2, Opponens pollicis, Abductor pollicis brevis, Flexor pollicis brevis.
Clinical correlation
Carpal tunnel syndrome and the 'hand of benediction' on attempted fist (proximal lesion).
Frequently asked questions
What are the roots of the median nerve?
The median nerve arises from C6, C7, C8, T1 (lateral and medial cords).
What muscles does the median nerve supply?
The median nerve supplies the most anterior forearm flexors (except FCU and medial FDP), thenar muscles, and lateral two lumbricals.
What is the sensory distribution of the median nerve?
The median nerve carries sensation from the palmar lateral 3½ digits and their nail beds; lateral palm.
What is the course of the median nerve?
Descends through the arm lateral then medial to the brachial artery, passes between the two heads of pronator teres, and travels through the carpal tunnel into the hand.