Which nerve is tested by sensation at the volar tip of the index finger?

Which nerve is tested by sensation at the volar tip of the index finger?

• A. Median
• B. Radial
• C. Ulnar
• D. Musculocutaneous

Answer: (A)

The sensation at the volar tip of the index finger tests the median nerve’s sensory territory in the hand. The median nerve provides the palmar digital nerves to the lateral digits, including the index finger, supplying the palmar surface and the distal fingertip. So normal sensation there indicates the median nerve is intact at the digital level. If this area is numb, it points toward median nerve injury along its course (for example, carpal tunnel compression). The radial nerve mainly covers the dorsum and radial aspect of the hand and fingers, not the volar tip; the ulnar nerve covers the medial digits on the palm; the musculocutaneous nerve supplies forearm skin. Hence, the nerve tested by sensation at the volar tip of the index finger is the median nerve.

The sensation at the volar tip of the index finger tests the median nerve’s sensory territory in the hand. The median nerve provides the palmar digital nerves to the lateral digits, including the index finger, supplying the palmar surface and the distal fingertip. So normal sensation there indicates the median nerve is intact at the digital level. If this area is numb, it points toward median nerve injury along its course (for example, carpal tunnel compression). The radial nerve mainly covers the dorsum and radial aspect of the hand and fingers, not the volar tip; the ulnar nerve covers the medial digits on the palm; the musculocutaneous nerve supplies forearm skin. Hence, the nerve tested by sensation at the volar tip of the index finger is the median nerve.