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Background/Objectives: The tibial nerve, commonly misnamed the "posterior tibial nerve", branches into four key nerves: the medial plantar, lateral plantar, inferior calcaneal (Baxter's nerve), and medial calcaneal branches. These nerves are integral to both the sensory and motor functions of the foot. Approximately 15% of adults with foot issues experience heel pain, frequently stemming from neural origins, such as tarsal tunnel syndrome (TTS). TTS diagnosis remains challenging due to a high false negative rate in neurophysiological studies. This study aims to improve the understanding and diagnosis of distal tarsal tunnel pathology to enable more effective treatments, including platelet-rich plasma, hydrodissections, radiofrequencies, and prolotherapy. Methods: Ultrasound-guided techniques were employed to examine the distal tarsal tunnel using the Heimkes triangle for optimal probe placement. Results: The results indicate that the tunnel consists of two chambers separated by the interfascicular septum, housing the medial, lateral plantar, and inferior calcaneal nerves. Successful interventions depend on precise visualization and patient positioning. This study emphasizes the importance of avoiding the calcaneus periosteum to reduce discomfort. Conclusions: Standardizing nerve involvement classification in TTS is difficult without robust neurophysiological studies. The accurate targeting of nerve branches is essential for effective treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: This study aims to identify the precise anatomical location and therapeutic mechanisms of the KI1 acupoint (Yongquan) in relation to foot muscles and nerves, known for treating neurological disorders and pain. Materials and Methods: Dissection of six cadavers at Chungnam National University College of Medicine examined KI1's relation to the foot's four-layer structure. Results: The KI1 acupoint was located in the superficial and deep layers of the plantar foot, adjacent to significant nerves like the medial and lateral plantar nerves. Differences in the acupoint's exact location between genders were noted, reflecting variances in foot morphology. KI1 acupuncture was found to stimulate the muscle spindles and nerve fibers essential for balance and bipedal locomotion. This stimulation may enhance sensory feedback, potentially improving cognitive functions and balance control. Conclusions: This anatomical insight into KI1 acupuncture underpins its potential in neurological therapies and pain management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The heel is a complex anatomical region and is very often the source of pain complaints. The medial heel contains a number of structures, capable of compressing the main nerves of the region and knowing its anatomical topography is mandatory. The purpose of this work is to evaluate if tibial nerve (TN) and its main branches relate to the main anatomical landmarks of the ankle's medial side and if so, do they have a regular path after emerging from TN. Methods: The distal part of the legs, ankles and feet of 12 Thiel embalmed cadavers were dissected. The pattern of the branches of the TN was registered and the measurements were performed according to the Dellon–McKinnon malleolar-calcaneal line (DML) and the Heimkes Triangle (HT). Results: The TN divided proximal to DML in 87.5%, on top of the DML in 12,5% and distal in none of the feet. The Baxter's nerve (BN) originated proximally in 50%, on top of the DML in 12,5% and distally in 37.5% of the cases. There was a strong and significant correlation between the length of DML and the distance from the center of the medial malleolus (MM) to the lateral plantar nerve (LPN), medial plantar (MPN) nerve, BN and Medial Calcaneal Nerve (MCN) (ρ: 0.910, 0.866, 0.970 and 0.762 respectively, p < 0.001). Conclusions: In our sample the TN divides distal to DML in none of the cases. We also report a strong association between ankle size and the distribution of the MPN, LPN, BN and MCN. We hypothesize that location of these branches on the medial side of the ankle could be more predictable if we take into consideration the distance between the MM and the medial process of the calcaneal tuberosity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this retrospective, observational, controlled study was to evaluate bone and soft tissue window CT images of the proximoplantar metatarsus III region in twenty horses with pain localized to the proximal suspensory ligament (PSL) and 20 horses with findings nonrelated to tarsal pain. All horses underwent CT and radiographic examination. Images were reviewed by three independent observers who graded the severity and localization of findings. Bone‐related categories as well as soft tissue‐related categories were evaluated. For the comparison of imaging findings in horses with and without proximal suspensory desmitis (PSD), mixed linear regression was performed. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was calculated to assess intraobserver agreement, and kappa statistics were employed to evaluate interobserver agreement. CT examination identified significantly more abnormalities in the diseased group. The scores for osseous exostosis (p =.015) and PSL enlargement (p =.004) were notably higher in PSD horses compared to controls. Intraobserver agreement was overall high (ICC.82–1.0), and interobserver agreement was substantial for the detection of mineralization (kappa =.61) and moderate for sclerosis (kappa =.43), exostosis (kappa =.43), and PSL enlargement (kappa =.48/.51). Measurements in the soft tissue window were significantly smaller than those in the bone window. Findings concurrent with PSD including osseous proliferation and sclerosis as well as soft tissue enlargement, mineralization, and avulsion can be reliably detected using CT. Findings from the current study supported the use of CT for evaluating horses with suspected PSD where high‐field MRI is not available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: This study aims to identify the precise anatomical location and therapeutic mechanisms of the KI1 acupoint (Yongquan) in relation to foot muscles and nerves, known for treating neurological disorders and pain. Materials and Methods: Dissection of six cadavers at Chungnam National University College of Medicine examined KI1’s relation to the foot’s four-layer structure. Results: The KI1 acupoint was located in the superficial and deep layers of the plantar foot, adjacent to significant nerves like the medial and lateral plantar nerves. Differences in the acupoint’s exact location between genders were noted, reflecting variances in foot morphology. KI1 acupuncture was found to stimulate the muscle spindles and nerve fibers essential for balance and bipedal locomotion. This stimulation may enhance sensory feedback, potentially improving cognitive functions and balance control. Conclusions: This anatomical insight into KI1 acupuncture underpins its potential in neurological therapies and pain management.

In the foot, the lumbricals flex the metatarsophalangeal joints and extend the interphalangeal joints. The lumbricals are known to be affected in neuropathies. It is not known whether they may degenerate in normal individuals. Here, we report our findings of isolated degenerated lumbricals in seemingly normal feet of two cadavers. We explored lumbricals in 20 male and 8 female cadavers that were 60-80 years of age at the time of death. As part of routine dissection, we exposed the tendons of the flexor digitorum longus and the lumbricals. From the degenerated lumbricals, we took some tissue for paraffin-embedding, sectioning, and staining by hematoxylin and eosin, and Masson's trichrome technique. Of the 224 lumbricals studied, we found four apparently degenerated lumbricals in two male cadavers. In the first, the 2nd and 4th lumbricals in the left foot and the 2nd in the right foot were degenerated. In the second, the right 4th lumbrical was degenerated. Microscopically, the degenerated tissue was made of bundles of collagen. The lumbricals may have degenerated due to compression of their nerve supply. We cannot comment on whether the functionality of the feet were affected by these isolated degeneration of the lumbricals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The flexor digitorum accessorius longus is an anomalous muscle with a reported prevalence of 1.6%-12.2% in cadaveric studies. Flexor digitorum accessorius longus courses through the tarsal tunnel and has been reported as an etiology of tarsal tunnel syndrome in previous case reports. The flexor digitorum accessorius longus is intimately related to the neurovascular bundle and may impinge on the lateral plantar nerves. However, very few cases of lateral plantar nerve compression by the flexor digitorum accessorius longus have been reported. Herein, we report a case of lateral plantar nerve compression caused by the flexor digitorum accessorius longus muscle in a 51-year-old man who complained of insidious pain at the lateral sole and hypoesthesia at the left third-fifth toe and lateral sole, and the pain improved after treatment of botulinum toxin injection into the flexor digitorum accessorius longus muscle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The heel is a complex anatomical region and is very often the source of pain complaints. The medial heel contains a number of structures, capable of compressing the main nerves of the region and knowing its anatomical topography is mandatory. The purpose of this work is to evaluate if tibial nerve (TN) and its main branches relate to the main anatomical landmarks of the ankle's medial side and if so, do they have a regular path after emerging from TN. Methods The distal part of the legs, ankles and feet of 12 Thiel embalmed cadavers were dissected. The pattern of the branches of the TN was registered and the measurements were performed according to the Dellon–McKinnon malleolar‐calcaneal line (DML) and the Heimkes Triangle (HT). Results The TN divided proximal to DML in 87.5%, on top of the DML in 12,5% and distal in none of the feet. The Baxter's nerve (BN) originated proximally in 50%, on top of the DML in 12,5% and distally in 37.5% of the cases. There was a strong and significant correlation between the length of DML and the distance from the center of the medial malleolus (MM) to the lateral plantar nerve (LPN), medial plantar (MPN) nerve, BN and Medial Calcaneal Nerve (MCN) (ρ: 0.910, 0.866, 0.970 and 0.762 respectively, p

Abstract Background The biggest challenge in treating this diagnosis is the lack of literature focusing on regional interdependence. The current literature suggests a narrow and localized approach targeting plantar fascia and ankle/foot complex. The literature available on conservative treatment focused on utilizing various inflammatory modalities such as injections and extracorporeal shockwave therapy. The surgical approach targets Baxter’s nerve decompression techniques and releases techniques to the gastrocnemius and plantar fascia. The article focuses on utilizing manual therapy techniques to the lumbosacral spine and plantar fascia. In addition, the neurodynamic flossing targeted lateral plantar nerve mobility. Case presentation The patient is a 54-year-old African American female seen for right heel pain at Texas’s outpatient orthopedic physical therapy clinic. The patient had the diagnosis of plantar fasciopathy with negative Windlass testing. The patient was provided manual therapy interventions to the lumbosacral spine and plantar fascia to improve weight-bearing patterns and overall functional outcomes. Conclusion The manual therapy interventions to the lumbosacral spine and plantar fascia and flossing techniques to the lateral plantar nerve improved symptoms of heel pain. The patient showed improved outcomes with this approach.

Abstract Background This study aims to analyse the clinical results of ultrasound-guided surgery for the decompression of the tibial nerve, including its distal medial and lateral branches, to treat tarsal tunnel syndrome. These structures are the complete flexor retinaculum and the deep fascia of the abductor hallucis muscle, including individualised release of the medial and lateral plantar nerve tunnels. Method This is a retrospective review of 81 patients (36 men and 45 women) with an average age of 41 years old (32–62) and an average clinical course of 31 months (8–96) compatible with idiopathic tarsal tunnel syndrome, who underwent ultrasound-guided decompression of the proximal and distal tarsal tunnel between February 2015 and November 2017 (both months included), with a minimum follow-up of 18 months. Results Based on the Takakura et al. scale for the 81 patients, 76.54% obtained excellent results, 13.58% good results, and 9.87% poor results. The patients with the longest course of symptoms displayed the worst results. Conclusion Although 9% of patients did not improve, ultrasound-guided tarsal tunnel release might be a viable alternative to conventional open approaches.

Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the topographic anatomy of the tibial nerve and its medial calcaneal branches in relation to the tip of the medial malleolus and to the posterior superior tip of the calcaneal tuberosity using the ultrasound examination and to verify its preoperative usefulness in surgical treatment.Materials and Methods: Bilateral ultrasound examination was performed on 30 volunteers and the location of the tibial nerve bifurcation and medial calcaneal branches origin were measured. Medial calcaneal branches were analysed in reference to the amount and their respective nerves of origin.Results: In 77% of cases, tibial nerve bifurcation occurred below the tip of the medial malleolus with the average distance of 5.9 mm and in 48% of cases above the posterior superior tip of the calcaneal tuberosity with the average distance of 2.7 mm. In 73% of cases medial calcaneal branches occurred as a single branch originating from the tibial nerve (60%). The average distance of the first, second and third medial calcaneal branch was accordingly 9.3 mm above, 9.5 mm below and 11.6 mm below the tip of the medial malleolus and 17.7 mm above, 1.6 mm below and 4 mm below the posterior superior tip of the calcaneal tuberosity.Conclusions: As the tibial nerve and its branches present a huge variability in the medial ankle area, in order to prevent the iatrogenic injuries, the preoperative or intraoperative ultrasound assessment (sonosurgery) of its localisation should be introduced into the clinic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The relationship between tarsal tunnel syndrome (TTS), electrodiagnostic (Edx) findings, and surgical outcome is unknown. Analysis of TTS surgical release outcome patient satisfaction and comparison to Edx nerve conduction studies (NCSs) is important to improve outcome prediction when deciding who would benefit from TTS release. Methods Retrospective study of 90 patients over 7 years that had tarsal tunnel (TT) release surgery with outcome rating and preoperative tibial NCS. Overall, 64 patients met study inclusion criteria with enough NCS data to be classified into one of the following three groups: (1) probable TTS, (2) peripheral polyneuropathy, or (3) normal. Most patients had preoperative clinical provocative testing including diagnostic tibial nerve injection, tibial Phalen's sign, and/or Tinel's sign and complaints of plantar tibial neuropathic symptoms. Outcome measure was percentage of patient improvement report at surgical follow-up visit. Results Patient-reported improvement was 92% in the probable TTS group (n = 41) and 77% of the non-TTS group (n = 23). Multivariate modeling revealed that three out of eight variables predicted improvement from surgical release, NCS consistent with TTS (p = 0.04), neuropathic symptoms (p = 0.045), and absent Phalen's test (p = 0.001). The R 2 was 0.21 which is a robust result for this outcome measurement process. Conclusion The best predictors of improvement in patients with TTS release were found in patients that had preoperative Edx evidence of tibial neuropathy in the TT and tibial nerve plantar symptoms. Determining what factors predict surgical outcome will require prospective evaluation and evaluation of patients with other nonsurgical modalities.

Background: This study aims to analyse the clinical results of ultrasound-guided surgery for the decompression of the tibial nerve, including its distal medial and lateral branches, to treat tarsal tunnel syndrome. These structures are the complete flexor retinaculum and the deep fascia of the abductor hallucis muscle, including individualised release of the medial and lateral plantar nerve tunnels. Method: This is a retrospective review of 81 patients (36 men and 45 women) with an average age of 41 years old (32–62) and an average clinical course of 31 months (8–96) compatible with idiopathic tarsal tunnel syndrome, who underwent ultrasound-guided decompression of the proximal and distal tarsal tunnel between February 2015 and November 2017 (both months included), with a minimum follow-up of 18 months. Results: Based on the Takakura et al. scale for the 81 patients, 76.54% obtained excellent results, 13.58% good results, and 9.87% poor results. The patients with the longest course of symptoms displayed the worst results. Conclusion: Although 9% of patients did not improve, ultrasound-guided tarsal tunnel release might be a viable alternative to conventional open approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: Tibial nerve is the larger terminal branch of sciatic nerve, ends by dividing into medial and lateral plantar nerves beneath the flexor retinaculum [Tarsal tunnel]. The level of bifurcation of the tibial nerve is differently quoted in text books and articles. The aim of the present study is to localize the level of bifurcation of tibial nerve. Materials and methods: 50 lower limbs from 25 cadavers available in the Department of anatomy, M.S. Ramaiah medical college and Bangalore medical college were used for the study. A reference line of 1 cm width ‘Medio Malleolar Calcaneal axis’ [MMC axis] made with OHP sheet was placed from tip of the medial malleolus of tibia to the medial tubercle of calcaneus and used as grid to classify the level of bifurcation of tibial nerve into 3 types. Type I, II, III represented the bifurcation proximal to, deep to and distal to this axis respectively. Results: Tibial nerve bifurcation was found to be type I in 92%, type II in 6%, type III in 2% of specimens. Most of the cases [32.6%] bifurcated between 5.1 to 10 mm proximal to MMC axis. The median distance of medial plantar nerve from medial malleolus was 21.28mm on left side and 20.735mm on right side. The mean of lateral plantar nerve from medial tubercle of calcaneus was 29.61mm on left side, and 28.6mm on right side. Conclusion: Detailed anatomical knowledge of tibial nerve prevents the damage to tibial nerve during various surgical procedures like fixation of fractures with external nailing of tarsal bones, medial displacement osteotomies and in tarsal tunnel surgeries.

The hallux is adducted in relation to the axis of the foot and to maintain this position requires adequate bone alignment, which is determined mainly by muscle activity. One of the structures that is involved in this function is the adductor muscle of the hallux, which can produce hallux valgus or rigid hallux when an imbalance occurs in its normal activity. Despite the importance of this muscle, there are few studies of its neuromuscular complex. The objective of this study was to describe the morphological and morphometric characteristics of the adductor muscle of the hallux and its motor branches in 30 lower limbs. The sole of the foot was dissected until it reached the plane of the muscle and its motor branches. The average length of the oblique head of the adductor muscle of the hallux was 78.16 mm (± 13.35), with an average maximum width of 20.55 mm (± 2.59) and a tendon of 25.87 mm (± 7, 97) in length. Regarding the same measurements of the transverse head were 39.55 (± 8.26), 15.04 (± 3.52) and 18.51 (± 10.04), respectively. The innervation of both heads came from the deep branch of the lateral plantar nerve. In most of the samples, said nerve emitted a bouquet for the oblique head and one for the transverse head. The oblique head had one or two motor points, generally located in its middle third. The transverse head had only one motor point that was usually in its lateral third. The knowledge of the morphological and morphometric characteristics of the adductor muscle of the hallux and its motor branches are clinically significant, since they allow an approximation of the location of the motor point in electromyographic procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: High‐resolution ultrasonography (US) can play an important role in studying nerves, as it has several advantages. Entrapments of distal tibial nerve branches can be mapped out or diagnosed with selective anesthetic blocks, and US can guide therapeutic procedures, such as radiofrequency ablation and selective infiltrations of specific nerve branches. The aim of this study was to verify that US is an effective method for accurately locating the posterior tibial nerve and its terminal branches, such as the medial calcaneal branch, the first calcaneal branch, and the medial and lateral plantar nerves. Methods: In this study, we analyzed the correlation between US mapping and real anatomy after cadaveric dissection, assessing the distribution and variability of the tibial nerve and its terminal branches. We used 12 fresh anatomic specimens of the foot and ankle, including the calf. A high‐resolution US study of the tibial nerve and its branches was performed. Results: The results of the US studies of the anatomic specimens were drawn as paper diagrams and in data collection tables. Both were completed twice per anatomic specimen, first using the results of the US study and second using the results from dissection of the anatomic specimens; this approach enabled us to compare the results and verify whether the US study and the dissection correlated on the topography of the tibial nerve and its terminal branches. We found almost total agreement between the US and dissection results, with no significant differences between the evaluations. Conclusions: On the basis of this work, we can conclude that high‐resolution US is almost 100% effective as a tool for identifying the tibial nerve and its branches, enabling the specialist to make diagnoses or perform selective treatments on each nerve branch and even to design surgical interventions by observing the patient's anatomy before performing the dissection [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The tibial nerve is the larger terminal branch of the sciatic nerve and it terminates in the tarsal tunnel by giving lateral and medial plantar nerves. We present a rare case of trifurcation of the tibial nerve within the tarsal tunnel. The variant nerve curves laterally after branching from the tibial nerve and courses deep to quadratus plantae muscle. Interestingly, posterior tibial artery was also terminating by giving three branches. These branches were accompanying the terminal branches of the tibial nerve. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The lateral plantar nerve is a terminal branch of the tibial nerve, which innervates most of the foot's musculature, and also provides sensory innervation to the sole of the foot. In this present review we address various aspects of the lateral plantar nerve from its origin to its division, emphasizing those branches that, as a result of their anatomical disposition have been identified as causing compression syndrome. Furthermore, thorough knowledge and experience of anatomical variations are essential in procedures of the plantar region. Numerous studies have been carried out to accurately describe the path and relationship of the first branches of the lateral plantar nerve. Branches originating directly from the lateral plantar nerve are for the abductor digiti minimi and quadratus plantae muscles, in addition to a lateral cutaneous branch. Among these anatomical variations it is possible to find medial calcaneal branches, common trunk for medial calcaneal branches and abductor digiti minimi muscle, vascular branches for the plantar vessels, 2 or 3 branches for the quadrate plantae muscle, common trunk for the abductor digiti minimi muscle an quadratus plantae muscle, branch for the flexor digiti minimi brevis muscle, "anastomotic" branch for the medial plantar nerve and branch for long plantar ligament. Updated and absolute knowledge of the anatomy of the foot are necessary, particularly during those surgical procedures that require precision, with fewer invasive approaches and positive results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present the first known case of cyst fluid localized to an articular branch without involvement of the larger parent nerve. During a routine tarsal tunnel decompression in a patient with fluctuating plantar foot symptoms and "normal" magnetic resonance imaging findings, we identified cyst fluid within an articular branch of the lateral plantar nerve to the subtalar joint. Our incidental intraoperative discovery was corroborated by retrospective review of the magnetic resonance images. Although we do not know whether this cyst was responsible for the patient's complaints, we believe this finding represents a snapshot into the life cycle of intraneural ganglion cysts: either the "birth" of an ultra-early one or the remnant of a once larger one. Both interpretations are consistent with the unifying articular theory and add further insight into the dynamic phases of the progression of intraneural ganglion cysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The nerve to the abductor digiti minimi muscle (ADMM nerve) is the first branch of the lateral plantar nerve or originates directly from the posterior tibial nerve. Damage to the ADMM nerve is a cause of heel pain and eventually results in ADMM atrophy. It is known that ADMM atrophy occurs more often in females than in males, and the reason remains unclear. This study aimed to explore sex differences in the branching pattern, position, and angle of the ADMM nerve. Methods Forty‐two cadavers (20 males, 22 females) were dissected at Aichi Medical University between 2011 and 2015. Cases of foot deformity or atrophy were excluded and 67 ft (30 male, 37 female) were examined to assess the branching pattern, position, and angle of the ADMM nerve. Results The branching positions of the ADMM nerve were superior to the malleolar–calcaneal axis (MCA) in 37 ft (55 %), on the MCA in 10 ft (15 %), and inferior to the MCA in 20 ft (30 %). There was no case among male feet in which the ADMM nerve branched inferior to the MCA, whereas this pattern was observed in 19 of 37 female feet (51 %). The branching position of the ADMM nerve was significantly closer to the MCA in female feet than in male feet. There were no significant sex differences in the branching pattern and angle of the ADMM nerve. Conclusions The ADMM nerve sometimes branches off inferior to the MCA in females, but not in males. This difference may be the reason for the more frequent occurrence of ADMM atrophy in females than in males.

Introduction: A new method to evaluate whole plantar nerve conduction with disposable strip electrodes (DSEs) is described.Methods: Whole plantar compound nerve action potentials (CNAPs) were recorded at the ankle. DSEs were attached to the sole for simultaneous stimulation of medial and lateral plantar nerves. We also conducted medial plantar nerve conduction studies using an established method and compared the findings.Results: Whole plantar CNAPs were recorded bilaterally from 32 healthy volunteers. Mean baseline to peak amplitude for CNAPs was 26.9 ± 11.8 μV, and mean maximum conduction velocity was 65.8 ± 8.3 m/s. The mean amplitude of CNAPs obtained by our method was 58.2% higher than that of CNAPs obtained by the Saeed method (26.9 μV vs. 17.0 μV; P < 0.0001).Conclusions: The higher mean amplitude of whole plantar CNAPs obtained by our method suggests that it enables CNAPs to be obtained easily, even in elderly people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the prevalence of isolated findings of abnormalities leading to entrapment of the lateral plantar nerve and respective branches in patients complaining of chronic heel pain, whose magnetic resonance imaging exams have showed complete selective fatty atrophy of the abductor digiti quinti muscle. Materials and Methods: Retrospective, analytical, and cross-sectional study. The authors selected magnetic resonance imaging of hindfoot of 90 patients with grade IV abductor digiti quinti muscle atrophy according to Goutallier and Bernageau classification. Patients presenting with minor degrees of fatty muscle degeneration (below grade IV) and those who had been operated on for nerve decompression were excluded. Results: A female prevalence (78.8%) was observed, and a strong correlation was found between fatty muscle atrophy and plantar fasciitis in 21.2%, and ankle varices, in 16.8% of the patients. Conclusion: Fatty atrophy of the abductor digiti quinti muscle is strongly associated with neuropathic alterations of the first branch of the lateral plantar nerve. The present study showed a significant association between plantar fasciitis and ankle varices with grade IV atrophy of the abductor digiti quinti muscle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the reliability of medial plantar (MP) and lateral plantar (LP) nerve conduction studies (NCS) in healthy individuals aged >65 years, and to obtain reference values for this age group. The study included 81 healthy subjects. MP response was absent in only 2 subjects, but LP response could not be obtained bilaterally in 43 of the 81 subjects. Regression analysis showed that MP NCS could be reliably performed in those aged ≤72 years and normal values for MP nerve in individuals aged 66-72 years would be strongly against a large-fiber neuropathy. However, LP response was absent in 53.1 % of the healthy elderly subjects; therefore, we think it is unreliable to study the LP nerve in this age group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Terminologia Anatomica contemplates the existence of common palmar digital nerves from the superficial branch of the ulnar nerve and common plantar digital nerves from the superficial branch of the lateral plantar nerve. According to most classical texts and anatomical studies of the regions palmar and plantar, there would only be common palmar digital nerve (IV) originated from the superficial branch of the ulnar nerve and common plantar digital nerve (IV) arising from the superficial branch of lateral plantar nerve. We conducted an anatomical review of the cutaneous innervation of the palm observing the behavior of the median and ulnar nerves, and the foot through the medial and lateral plantar nerves. In this study we discuss the related literature and conclude that Terminologia Anatomica must be corrected in the A14.2.03.046 term (Nn. common palmar digital) and in A14.2.07.071 term (Nn. common plantar digital ), which should be called: common palmar digital nerve and common plantar digital nerve, corresponding to both the IV common palmar digital nerve and IV common plantar digital nerve, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]