Brachial plexus

Definition

The brachial plexus is a network of nerves that originates from the spinal cord in the neck and extends through the armpit, supplying nerves to the arm, forearm, and hand. It is responsible for motor and sensory signals between the spinal cord and the upper limb.

Related terms

Motor neurons: Nerve cells that initiate and conduct impulses from the nervous system to muscles, causing them to contract.

Sensory neurons: Nerve cells that transmit sensory information (like touch, pain, and temperature) from the body back to the central nervous system.

Cervical vertebrae: The seven vertebrae forming the upper part of the spine, from which nerve roots contributing to the brachial plexus emerge