The coccygeal nerve is the last and smallest pair of spinal nerves in the human body, originating from the conus medullaris, which is the terminal segment of the spinal cord. These nerves are also referred to as spinal nerve Co or Nervus coccygicus.
Details About the Coccygeal Nerve
- Origin: The coccygeal nerve arises from the conus medullaris, the tapering end of the spinal cord. This location is typically found in the distal part of the vertebral column.
- Size: As the final spinal nerve, it is the smallest.
- Function: The coccygeal nerve contributes to the sensory innervation of the skin over the coccyx (tailbone) region. It helps transmit sensory information from this area to the brain.
- Sacrococcygeal Plexus: It joins with the terminal branches of the sacral plexus to form the sacrococcygeal plexus.
- Target Area: The coccygeal nerve provides sensation to a small area of skin over the coccyx.
In summary, the coccygeal nerve is a small spinal nerve that provides sensory innervation to the skin surrounding the tailbone, playing a crucial role in relaying sensation from that area.
