Median Nerve

The median nerve is a major peripheral nerve that runs from the brachial plexus in the upper arm, through the forearm, and into the hand. It is responsible for both motor and sensory functions in the anterior forearm and the palmar side of the hand, including the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and part of the ring finger. The median nerve controls the flexion of the wrist, hand, and digits, as well as the abduction and opposition of the thumb. Sensory information from the skin of the palm and fingers is also transmitted via this nerve.

Compression or entrapment of the median nerve can lead to various conditions, most notably carpal tunnel syndrome, which causes pain, numbness, and tingling in the affected hand and fingers. Other disorders related to median nerve dysfunction include anterior interosseous nerve syndrome and pronator teres syndrome. Diagnosis of median nerve issues involves a combination of physical examination, electromyography, and nerve conduction studies. Treatment options range from conservative measures like splinting and physical therapy (like remedial massage therapy and osteopathy) to surgical interventions such as carpal tunnel release, depending on the severity and underlying cause of the condition.