Long Thoracic Nerve - Podcast Version TeachMeAnatomy 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The long thoracic nerve is a somatic motor nerve of the thoracic wall. It supplies innervation to the serratus anterior muscle. Pro Feature - 3D Model You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our 3D Model Library Explore, cut, dissect, annotate and manipulate our 3D models to visualise anatomy in a dynamic, interactive way. Learn More Course The long thoracic nerve originates from the brachial plexus, recieving fibres directly from the anterior rami of spinal nerves C5-7. It descends posteriorly to the brachial plexus and anteriorly to the posterior scalene muscle. The nerve continues distally deep to the clavicle and superficial to the first and second ribs before continuing along the anterolateral thoracic wall. It divides into its terminal branches at the surface of the serratus anterior muscle. Adobe Stock, Licensed to TeachMeSeries Ltd Fig 1Course of the long thoracic nerve. Pro Feature - Dissection Atlas You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our Dissection Image Library Enhance your understanding with high-resolution dissection images showcasing real-life anatomy. Learn More Motor Functions The long thoracic nerve supplies motor innervation to the serratus anterior muscle. This muscle rotates the scapula, allowing the arm to be raised over 90 degrees. It also holds the scapula against the ribcage. Damage to the long thoracic nerve can result in weakness of the serratus anterior, producing a characteristic “winged scapula” appearance. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2025) Fig 2The serratus anterior and pectoralis minor muscles. Rate This Article