Chapter 2 - Upper Limb Nerve Supply

Abstract

This chapter examines the main cutaneous and/or motor nerves of the upper limb. First, the chapter will provide an overview about the general layout of the upper limb. Further, it will discuss the general skeletal arrangement of the upper limb, and the regions of the upper limb. This will enable the reader to gain a greater understanding of the main anatomical regions of the upper limb. It will also discuss briefly the embryological development of the upper limb. Following this, a detailed account will be given of the main sensory and/or motor nerves. Further, details about the brachial plexus, as well as other nerves contributing to the innervation of the upper limb will also be given. Then each nerve will be discussed in turn in terms of what musculature and/or cutaneous innervation it supplies. Later, the following nerves will be discussed in greater detail: the dorsal scapular nerve, long thoracic nerve, suprascapular nerve, nerve to subclavius, lateral pectoral nerve, medial pectoral nerve, musculocutaneous nerve, median nerve, medial cutaneous nerve of arm, medial cutaneous nerve of forearm, ulnar nerve, upper subscapular nerve, lower subscapular nerve, thoracodorsal nerve, axillary nerve and radial nerves. At the relevant points, this chapter will then discuss clinical examination of each of these nerves, providing hints and tips on how to effectively examine each territory. Clinical examination of these nerves will be described in relation to approaching the patient, and hints and tips on how to effectively examine each of these nerves to elicit relevant signs and symptoms. Pathologies of the nerves will be discussed not only relating it to current research in the field but also highlighting historical perspectives, where relevant. In addition, to place it into clinical context, related pathologies and findings on clinical examination would be given, as relevant.