Axillary Nerve: Anatomy and Functional Overview

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 07:48:46 +1300

The axillary nerve is a key peripheral nerve of the upper limb, essential for shoulder stability, arm elevation, and sensory feedback around the shoulder region. This educational video provides a clear and clinically relevant overview of the axillary nerve’s anatomy, course, and primary functions.

Arising from the posterior cord of the brachial plexus (C5–C6), the axillary nerve travels through the quadrangular space alongside the posterior circumflex humeral artery. It winds around the surgical neck of the humerus, making it particularly vulnerable to injury during shoulder dislocations or proximal humeral fractures.

Functionally, the axillary nerve innervates the deltoid and teres minor muscles, enabling shoulder abduction beyond the initial range and contributing to external rotation of the arm. Sensory innervation is provided to the skin over the lateral shoulder via the superior lateral cutaneous nerve of the arm.

The video also connects anatomy to clinical practice, explaining common injuries, symptoms of axillary nerve damage, and functional deficits such as weakened shoulder abduction and loss of sensation over the “regimental badge” area.

Ideal for medical students, physiotherapists, and healthcare professionals, this resource delivers accurate, experience-based insight into the axillary nerve’s role in upper limb movement and shoulder function.

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