Nerves of the Neck

Overview

The nerve supply of the neck supports sensation, movement and autonomic control. This section introduces the major neural pathways that traverse the cervical region.

Key Structures

Topics include the cervical plexus and its sensory and motor branches, as well as additional nerves relevant to cervical function and clinical examination.

Clinical Relevance and Learning Focus

Knowledge of cervical nerve pathways supports diagnosis of neuropathies, interpretation of referred pain and safe application of regional anaesthesia.

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Diagram of the major branches of the cervical plexus, illustrating the primary connections while omitting smaller branches for clarity.

The Cervical Plexus

Anatomical illustration showing the course of the phrenic nerves that innervate the diaphragm.

The Phrenic Nerve

Popular

Diagram illustrating the palmar cutaneous branch of the median nerve, highlighting its origin at the distal wrist and its innervation of the lateral palm skin.
Encyclopaedia

Palmar Cutaneous Branch of the Median Nerve

by Kumail Jaffry

Illustration of the fibularis longus and brevis muscles in the lateral leg.
Encyclopaedia

Fibularis (Peroneus) Longus

by Roxanne Salkeld

Encyclopaedia

External Oblique

by Aren Mnatzakanian