Axillary nerve
Axillary Nerve
The Axillary Nerve (pronounced: ax·il·lar·y nerve, /ˈaksəˌlerē nərv/) is a peripheral nerve of the brachial plexus, which provides motor innervation to the deltoid muscle and the teres minor muscle, as well as sensory innervation to the skin of the shoulder.
Etymology
The term "Axillary" is derived from the Latin word "Axilla" which means "armpit". The nerve is named so because it passes through the axilla, or armpit area.
Anatomy
The Axillary Nerve originates from the posterior cord of the Brachial Plexus, carrying fibers from the C5 and C6 spinal nerves. It travels through the quadrangular space with the posterior circumflex humeral artery and vein to innervate the deltoid and teres minor muscles. It also gives off a superior lateral cutaneous nerve branch that provides sensation to the regimental badge area of the lateral shoulder.
Related Terms
- Brachial Plexus: A network of nerves that send signals from your spine to your shoulder, arm, and hand.
- Deltoid Muscle: Large triangular muscle covering the joint of the shoulder, responsible for lifting the arm and giving the shoulder its range of motion.
- Teres Minor Muscle: Small narrow muscle of the shoulder joint, which assists in lateral rotation of the arm.
- Quadrangular Space: An anatomic space in the arm, through which the axillary nerve and the posterior circumflex humeral artery pass.
Clinical Significance
Damage to the Axillary Nerve can result in a condition known as Axillary Nerve Palsy. This can lead to a loss of sensation over the regimental badge area and weakness in abduction and external rotation of the shoulder.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Axillary nerve
- Wikipedia's article - Axillary nerve
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