Radial Nerve: Anatomy and Functional Overview

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 07:51:09 +1300

The radial nerve is the primary motor nerve of the posterior upper limb, playing a vital role in elbow, wrist, and finger extension, as well as sensory perception of the posterior arm and hand. This educational video provides a clear and clinically relevant explanation of the radial nerve’s anatomy, pathway, and function.

Originating from the posterior cord of the brachial plexus (C5–T1), the radial nerve travels posterior to the axillary artery, enters the radial groove of the humerus, and descends toward the lateral elbow. Along its course, it innervates the triceps brachii, enabling elbow extension, before dividing into deep (motor) and superficial (sensory) branches in the forearm.

Functionally, the radial nerve supplies the wrist and finger extensors, allowing hand opening, grip release, and coordinated upper limb movement. Sensory branches provide sensation to the posterior arm, posterior forearm, and dorsum of the hand, excluding the fingertips.

The video also links anatomy to clinical relevance, covering common injuries such as radial nerve palsy, wrist drop, and compression syndromes associated with fractures or prolonged pressure.

Ideal for medical students, physiotherapists, and healthcare professionals, this resource offers an accurate, experience-based understanding of the radial nerve’s essential role in upper limb function.