fingertupp

Fingertupp is the Swedish term for the fingertip, the distal end of a finger that includes the fingertip pad and, on the dorsal side, the nail plate. The fingertip is specialized for tactile sensation and precise manipulation, contributing to fine motor tasks such as gripping, handling small objects, and texture discrimination.

Anatomy and structure

The fingertip comprises a thickened, highly innervated skin pad over the distal phalanx, a nail plate on the dorsal surface, and a rich subcutaneous fat layer that supports sensitivity and pressure transmission. The volar (palm-side) skin contains many sweat glands and a dense network of mechanoreceptors. Nail growth originates from the nail matrix beneath the proximal nail fold. The distal phalanx bone provides structural support for the fingertip.

Nerve supply and sensation

Sensation in the fingertip largely derives from digital nerves branching from the median and ulnar nerves. The high density of mechanoreceptors—such as Merkel cells, Meissner’s corpuscles, and, deeper, Pacinian corpuscles—enables high tactile acuity, texture sensing, and vibration detection. The overlapping innervation explains the fingertip’s ability to detect minute differences in shape, edge, and surface.

Function and applications

The fingertip’s combination of thick skin, rich innervation, and pad structure supports delicate manipulation and precise grip. It plays a central role in object handling, tactile exploration, and feedback for motor control. Fingerprints created by skin ridges at the fingertip contribute to grip and texture perception.

Clinical relevance

Fingertip injuries, including crush injuries, fingertip avulsions, and nail bed damage, are common in manual activities. Management focuses on preserving sensation, preventing infection, and restoring function. Tuft fractures of the distal phalanx and nail bed injuries are notable fingertip conditions that may require medical attention.