It usually passes distal[clarification needed] to the transverse carpal ligament.

[3] In the thenar eminence, the recurrent branch of the median nerve provides motor innervation to:[4] A separate, more proximal branch of the median nerve additionally provides motor innervation to the 1st and 2nd lumbricals of the hand.

All other intrinsic muscles of the hand receive motor innervation via the ulnar nerve.

[2] The recurrent branch of the median nerve may be affected in carpal tunnel syndrome, or from its own separate peripheral neuropathies.

Injury to this nerve can lead to loss of function of the thumb.