Audio LecturePro Feature Superior Lateral Cutaneous Nerve of the Arm 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The superior lateral cutaneous nerve of the arm is a sensory nerve of the upper limb. It is a continuation of the posterior branch of the axillary nerve. It supplies sensation to the skin overlying the inferior portion of the deltoid muscle. 3D ModelPro Feature 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 superior lateral cutaneous nerve of the arm arises as a continuation of the posterior branch of the axillary nerve. The posterior branch of the axillary nerve arises at the level of the surgical neck of the humerus. It moves superficially, piercing the deep fascia at the posterior shoulder region. As the nerve enters the subcutaneous plane, it becomes the superior lateral cutaneous nerve of the arm. It then curves around the posterior border of the deltoid and terminates as sensory branches to the overlying skin. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 1The anterior and posterior divisions of the axillary nerve Sensory Supply The superior lateral cutaneous nerve of the arm supplies sensation to the skin overlying the inferior portion of the deltoid muscle. It is also known as the “regimental badge” area. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 2The sensory innervation of the axillary nerve – known as the regimental badge area. Frequent questions What is the superior lateral cutaneous nerve of the arm? The superior lateral cutaneous nerve of the arm is a sensory nerve that provides sensation to the skin over the inferior part of the deltoid muscle. It is a continuation of the posterior branch of the axillary nerve. What is the course of the superior lateral cutaneous nerve of the arm? This nerve arises from the posterior branch of the axillary nerve at the surgical neck of the humerus. It travels superficially, piercing the deep fascia in the posterior shoulder region before becoming the superior lateral cutaneous nerve. What area does the superior lateral cutaneous nerve of the arm supply? The nerve supplies sensory innervation to the skin located over the inferior portion of the deltoid muscle. This area is commonly referred to as the "regimental badge" area. What is the significance of the superior lateral cutaneous nerve of the arm in clinical practice? Its clinical relevance lies in its role in sensory innervation, as damage to this nerve can lead to loss of sensation in the skin over the deltoid region. Understanding its anatomy is crucial for diagnosing shoulder and upper limb injuries. How does the superior lateral cutaneous nerve of the arm relate to the axillary nerve? The superior lateral cutaneous nerve is a direct continuation of the posterior branch of the axillary nerve. It emerges from the axillary nerve as it travels around the surgical neck of the humerus, providing sensory innervation to the upper limb. Rate This Article