Nerves of the Upper Limb

Overview

The nerve supply of the upper limb underpins all sensory and motor function. This section explains the formation and branching of the brachial plexus and the pathways of its major terminal nerves.

Key Structures

Articles cover the brachial plexus, its roots, trunks, divisions and cords, followed by detailed pages on the axillary, musculocutaneous, median, radial and ulnar nerves. The cutaneous distribution and functional testing of each nerve are described alongside relevant clinical signs.

Clinical Relevance and Learning Focus

Understanding peripheral nerve anatomy is fundamental for localising lesions and assessing neurological injury. The section connects structural pathways to common clinical presentations such as carpal tunnel syndrome and radial nerve palsy.

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Cutaneous Innervation

Proximal portion of the brachial plexus illustrated in the neck.

The Brachial Plexus

The Axillary Nerve

The Musculocutaneous Nerve

Anatomical diagram illustrating the course of the median nerve through the upper limb.

The Median Nerve

Illustration depicting the cutaneous innervation areas of the radial nerve in the upper limb.

The Radial Nerve

Anatomical diagram illustrating the course of the ulnar nerve through the upper limb.

The Ulnar Nerve

Popular

Illustration of the zygomatic nerve's course and branches stemming from the maxillary nerve.
Encyclopaedia

Zygomatic Nerve

by Akila Wasalage

Illustration of the two orbital muscles of facial expression: Orbicularis Oculi and Corrugator Supercilii.
Encyclopaedia

Corrugator Supercilii

by Max Bidewell

Lateral view of the neck illustrating the innervation of the stylopharyngeus muscle by the glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX).
The Cranial Nerves

The Glossopharyngeal Nerve (CN IX)

by Olivia Leafe