Which nerve innervates the dorsum of the foot, excluding the first web space?

The innervation of the dorsum of the foot, excluding the first web space, is primarily provided by the superficial peroneal nerve. This nerve branches from the common peroneal nerve and supplies sensation to the majority of the dorsum of the foot, allowing for feeling in the skin over the dorsal aspect of the foot, with the notable exception being the skin between the first and second toes, which is innervated by the deep peroneal nerve.

The superficial peroneal nerve also plays a role in the motor function of some muscles in the lateral compartment of the leg, although its primary relevance in this context is regarding sensation.

The first web space receives its sensory supply from the deep peroneal nerve. The tibial nerve primarily innervates the plantar aspect of the foot and is not involved in the sensation of the dorsum. The sural nerve provides sensation to the lateral side of the foot and is not involved in the dorsum specifically.

Hence, the choice of the superficial peroneal nerve accurately reflects the nerve that is responsible for sensory innervation to the dorsum of the foot, excluding the first web space.