The distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) is a synovial pivot joint located between the distal ends of the radius and ulna. It allows for forearm rotation (pronation and supination) by enabling the radius to move around the fixed ulna. Stability is provided by the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC), along with ligaments and muscle support. The DRUJ…
Introduction The superior gluteal nerve, a motor branch of the sacral plexus, originates from the posterior divisions of the L4, L5, and S1 anterior roots. The superior gluteal nerve and vessels travel through the greater sciatic foramen before passing superiorly to the piriformis muscle. From there, the nerve splits into its superior and inferior branches,…
Introduction The suprascapular nerve is a branch of the brachial plexus (C5-C6) that supplies motor innervation to the supraspinatus and infraspinatus muscles, which are key for shoulder movement and stability. It also carries sensory fibers to the glenohumeral joint and surrounding ligaments. The nerve passes through the suprascapular notch, where it is susceptible to compression…
Introduction The common peroneal nerve (also known as the common fibular nerve) is a branch of the sciatic nerve, originating in the lumbosacral plexus (L4-S2). It wraps around the head of the fibula, making it vulnerable to injury. The nerve then divides into the superficial and deep peroneal nerves, innervating the lateral and anterior compartments…
Introduction The anatomical snuffbox, or the radial fossa, is a triangular indent located on the outer side of the back of the hand. It can be found at the level of the wrist bones and is most noticeable when the thumb is extended. Historically, this indent was used to hold snuff (finely ground tobacco) before…
Introduction The obturator nerve is a peripheral nerve that arises from the lumbar plexus (L2-L4) and primarily supplies the medial thigh. It provides motor innervation to the adductor muscles (adductor longus, adductor brevis, adductor magnus, gracilis, and obturator externus) and sensory innervation to the skin of the medial thigh. In several pathologic disorders and operations…
Introduction The sural nerve is a sensory nerve in the lower leg, originating from the tibial and common fibular (peroneal) nerves. It runs along the posterior aspect of the calf and provides sensation to the lateral side of the foot and ankle. The sural nerve is often used as a donor nerve for grafting procedures…
The palmar aponeurosis is a thick, triangular layer of connective tissue located in the palm of the hand. It functions to protect underlying structures, provide support to the hand, and aid in grip by connecting the palmar skin to the deeper tissues. The aponeurosis extends from the flexor retinaculum to the bases of the fingers,…
What is a Spine Examination? A spine examination is a systematic assessment of the spinal column, including the cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral, and coccygeal regions. It involves evaluating posture, alignment, range of motion, and identifying any deformities or asymmetries. The examination typically includes inspection, palpation, assessment of movement, and neurological testing to assess motor, sensory,…
Introduction The femoral nerve is a major peripheral nerve of the lower limb, originating from the lumbar plexus (L2-L4). It supplies motor innervation to the anterior thigh muscles (e.g., quadriceps) responsible for knee extension and hip flexion, and provides sensory innervation to the anterior thigh and medial leg via the saphenous nerve. It plays a…
