SEPT 26 Nerves of the UE
Future Relevance for Physiotherapy Exams
For palpation exams in physiotherapy, knowing a muscle's peripheral nerve and spinal nerve root innervation is as important as knowing its origin, insertion, and action.
This knowledge, although not directly tested in current palpation, is crucial for future practical applications.
Innervation of Shoulder Muscles
Muscles around the shoulder (excluding those further down the arm) are primarily innervated by spinal nerve roots and .
Muscles located further down the arm are innervated by nerve roots emerging lower in the neck.
Four Main Nerves of the Shoulder and Upper Arm
These nerves play relatively smaller roles compared to the forearm nerves and are less vulnerable to injury or damage.
Their shorter travel distance and proximity to the nerve root reduce their exposure to damage.
Axillary Nerve (also called Circumflexors)
Innervates muscles around the axilla (armpit).
Subscapular Nerves (Upper and Lower)
Innervate rotator cuff muscles, such as the subscapularis.
Suprascapular Nerve
Located superior and lateral to the scapula, not deep to it.
Musculocutaneous Nerve
Innervates muscles just distal to the shoulder, including some innervation of the biceps and triceps.
Its distribution does not extend to the forearm muscles.
Three Vulnerable Nerves of the Forearm and Hand
These nerves are longer and more susceptible to injury, making their specific distribution patterns critical for diagnosis.
Ulnar Nerve
Pathway: Travels behind the elbow, passing between the medial epicondyle and the olecranon.
Sensation: This is the nerve that causes the