Nervus digitalis palmaris
The palmar digital nerves are the terminal branches of the median nerve. They run along the sides of the pastern and fetlock and provide sensation to the majority of the equine foot, including the heel region, sole, and navicular apparatus. They also carry sympathetic fibers that influence blood flow within the foot. Diagnostic analgesia (nerve blocking) of the palmar digital nerves just above the heel bulbs is one of the most important tools for localizing pain to the caudal foot in horses suspected of having navicular syndrome or other heel pain. The same structures exist in the hindlimb as the plantar digital nerves.
Palmar digital nerve block is routinely used in lameness examinations. A positive response localizes pain to the caudal third of the foot. The nerves can also be involved in traumatic injury or neuroma formation after surgery. Neurectomy (cutting the nerves) is sometimes used in advanced navicular cases when medical management fails, but it carries risks.
A positive palmar digital nerve block does not diagnose a specific disease; it only localizes the pain. Always follow the veterinarian's recommendations for further imaging and management.
Palmar digital nerve block is routinely used in lameness examinations. A positive response localizes pain to the caudal third of the foot. The nerves can also be involved in traumatic injury or neuroma formation after surgery. Neurectomy (cutting the nerves) is sometimes used in advanced navicular cases when medical management fails, but it carries risks.
A positive palmar digital nerve block does not diagnose a specific disease; it only localizes the pain. Always follow the veterinarian's recommendations for further imaging and management.
See the Palmar Digital Nerve on our interactive 3D horse model. Open 3D Model