The correct spelling of the word "nervus plantaris medialis" may seem difficult, but it follows the rules of phonetic transcription. In IPA, the word is spelled /ˈnərvəs plænˈtærɪs mɛˈdiaːlis/. Each syllable is represented by a symbol, and the stress is indicated by the accent marks. The "r" sound in "nervus" and "plantaris" is pronounced with a slight roll of the tongue. The "a" in "medialis" is pronounced as a long "ah" sound. Understanding IPA can help with spelling difficult medical terms.
The nervus plantaris medialis, also known as the medial plantar nerve, is a branch of the tibial nerve that supplies sensory innervation to the medial side of the foot. It is one of the main nerves responsible for transmitting signals of touch, temperature, and pain from the sole of the foot to the brain.
Originating from the tibial nerve as it enters the foot, the nervus plantaris medialis passes beneath the medial malleolus (the bony prominence on the inner ankle) and follows a course along the medial aspect of the foot. Here, it branches off into smaller nerves that innervate various regions on the inner side of the foot, including the skin between the first and second toes, the sole of the big toe, and the inner arch of the foot.
The nervus plantaris medialis also provides motor innervation to the abductor hallucis muscle, which is responsible for moving the big toe away from the other toes. Additionally, it contributes to the innervation of the flexor hallucis brevis muscle, which aids in flexion of the big toe.
In summary, the nervus plantaris medialis is a significant nerve in the foot responsible for transmitting sensory information and controlling specific muscles. It plays a crucial role in allowing individuals to maintain balance, experience tactile sensations, and control movements within the medial aspect of the foot.
Medial plantar nerve, internal plantar nerve, one of the terminal branches of the tibial, supplying the muscles and skin of the inner portion of the sole of the foot.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.