At which level does the lateral two toes receive its sensory innervation?

The lateral two toes, specifically the fourth and fifth toes, receive their sensory innervation primarily from the S1 spinal nerve. This is because the S1 nerve root is responsible for providing sensation to the lateral aspect of the foot, including the lateral toes. The appropriate nerve involved is part of the sacral plexus, which branches into nerves that serve the lower limb.

Understanding the sensory innervation of the toes is essential in clinical settings, especially when assessing conditions that may affect nerve function or when diagnosing potential nerve injuries. The S1 nerve root plays a pivotal role in this sensory pathway, ensuring that the lateral toes can detect stimuli such as touch, temperature, and painful sensations. Other spinal levels listed (L4, L5, and S2) contribute to different areas of the lower limb but do not directly innervate the sensory regions of the lateral two toes in the same manner as S1.