Which spinal nerves are primarily involved in an upper brachial plexus injury?

Which spinal nerves are primarily involved in an upper brachial plexus injury?

• A. C7 and C8
• B. C5 and C6
• C. C8 and T1
• D. C3 and C4

Answer: (B)

The primary spinal nerves involved in an upper brachial plexus injury are C5 and C6. This type of injury typically occurs as a result of excessive trauma or stretch to the shoulder area, often seen in situations such as a fall or during childbirth. The C5 and C6 nerves are responsible for the innervation of the shoulder and upper arm muscles, which includes important motor functions and sensory feedback. When these nerves are damaged, it can lead to a characteristic pattern of weakness in the affected areas, manifesting as the inability to abduct the shoulder or flex the elbow, and can also result in sensory deficits in the lateral aspect of the arm. Recognizing the specific spinal nerves that are compromised is crucial for implementing an effective rehabilitation strategy and understanding the potential functional implications for the patient.

The primary spinal nerves involved in an upper brachial plexus injury are C5 and C6. This type of injury typically occurs as a result of excessive trauma or stretch to the shoulder area, often seen in situations such as a fall or during childbirth. The C5 and C6 nerves are responsible for the innervation of the shoulder and upper arm muscles, which includes important motor functions and sensory feedback.

When these nerves are damaged, it can lead to a characteristic pattern of weakness in the affected areas, manifesting as the inability to abduct the shoulder or flex the elbow, and can also result in sensory deficits in the lateral aspect of the arm. Recognizing the specific spinal nerves that are compromised is crucial for implementing an effective rehabilitation strategy and understanding the potential functional implications for the patient.