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Medial Plantar Nerve

nervus plantaris medialis

The medial plantar nerve is the larger of the two plantar nerves, analogous to the median nerve in the hand, supplying the medial sole and the intrinsic muscles of the medial forefoot. Jogger's foot (medial plantar nerve entrapment at the master knot of Henry or at the medial calcaneal canal) produces burning medial plantar foot pain in runners from nerve compression by the hypertrophied abductor hallucis or fibrous arch at the entry point of the nerve into the sole.

Region: Foot & Ankle

Anatomical Data

Origin, Insertion & Supply

Origin	Tibial nerve at the medial ankle within the tarsal tunnel

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Medial plantar neuropathy in runners (jogger's foot) produces medial heel and arch burning that mimics plantar fasciitis but is reproduced by Tinel sign over the tarsal canal and by direct pressure over the medial plantar nerve entry at the abductor hallucis canal. Orthotic arch support reducing pronation and abductor hallucis stretching resolve most cases, with surgical decompression for refractory cases.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Jogger's Foot

Medial plantar nerve entrapment at the abductor hallucis fibrous arch producing medial plantar burning in runners, managed with orthotics and nerve decompression.