GLOSSARY

The median nerve is formed from the lateral and medial cords of the brachial plexus (roots C5–T1), passes down the middle of the arm and the front of the elbow, and enters the hand through the carpal tunnel; it supplies most of the forearm flexors and the thenar muscles and is essential for fine movements and gripping.

Functions

• Motor (forearm): most of the wrist and finger flexors and the pronators (turning the palm down).
• Motor (hand): the thenar muscles for thumb opposition and the first and second lumbricals.
• Sensory: the thumb side of the palm, the thumb, index, middle, and half of the ring finger.

Clinical Application