What is the primary function of the median nerve?

The primary function of the median nerve is to provide sensation in the hand and forearm. This nerve plays a crucial role in transmitting sensory information from the skin of the palm and fingers, especially the thumb, index, and middle fingers. Additionally, it is responsible for controlling several muscles in the forearm that are involved in fine motor skills and the movement of the thumb, allowing for actions such as grasping and manipulating objects.

The median nerve's pathway includes the carpal tunnel, where it can be susceptible to compression, leading to conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, which emphasizes its significance in hand function. Understanding this nerve's role is essential for diagnosing and treating conditions that can affect the upper extremities, particularly those that may cause numbness or weakness in the hand and forearm.