Superficial Radial Nerve - Podcast Version 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The superficial radial nerve is a sensory nerve branch of the radial nerve that arises in the cubital fossa. It supplies sensory cutaneous innervation to the lateral portion of the dorsum of the hand. 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 superficial radial nerve originates in the cubital fossa as the radial nerve divides into superfical and deep branches at the level of the lateral epicondyle. It continues down the anterior aspect of the forearm, lateral to the radial artery, and concealed in a plane between the brachioradialis and pronator teres muscles. About 7cm proximal to the wrist, it pierces the deep fascia of the forearm to wind around the radius, pass over the anatomical snuffbox, and branch off into the dorsum of the hand. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 1The superficial branch of the radial nerve. Adobe Stock, Licensed to TeachMeSeries Ltd Fig 2Dorsal course of the supeficial radial nerve in the distal forearm and hand. Pro Feature - Dissection Atlas Prosection of the radial nerve in the forearm. It divides into superficial and deep branches within the proximal forearm. Prosection of the radial nerve in the forearm. It divides into superficial and deep branches within the proximal forearm. 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 Sensory Functions The superficial radial nerve is a purely cutaneous sensory nerve. It has four dorsal digital branches which supply: Dorsal skin on lateral side of the hand Proximal dorsal surfaces of the thumb, index, and lateral half of the middle finger. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 3Cutaneous innervation of the superficial branch of the radial nerve. Frequent questions What is the superficial radial nerve? The superficial radial nerve is a sensory branch of the radial nerve that provides cutaneous innervation to the lateral part of the back of the hand. It originates in the cubital fossa and travels along the forearm before branching out. What are the main functions of the superficial radial nerve? The primary function of the superficial radial nerve is to provide sensory innervation to specific areas of the hand. It supplies sensation to the dorsal skin on the lateral aspect of the hand and the proximal dorsal surfaces of the thumb, index finger, and the lateral half of the middle finger. Where does the superficial radial nerve originate? The superficial radial nerve originates in the cubital fossa, where the radial nerve divides into superficial and deep branches near the lateral epicondyle. This anatomical location marks the beginning of its course down the forearm. How does the superficial radial nerve travel through the forearm? The superficial radial nerve travels down the anterior aspect of the forearm, positioned laterally to the radial artery. It is located in a plane between the brachioradialis and pronator teres muscles before reaching the wrist. What is the clinical significance of the superficial radial nerve? The superficial radial nerve is clinically significant due to its role in sensory perception of the hand. Injury or compression of this nerve can lead to sensory deficits in the areas it innervates, affecting hand function and sensation. Rate This Article