Skip to main content

Unfortunately we don't fully support your browser. If you have the option to, please upgrade to a newer version or use Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, or Safari 14 or newer. If you are unable to, and need support, please send us your feedback.

Elsevier
Publish with us
Dorsal Scapular Nerve
Nervous System

Dorsal Scapular Nerve

Nervus dorsalis scapulae

Read more

Quick Facts

Origin: C5 root of the brachial plexus.

Course: Inferiorly along the medial border of the scapula.

Branches: No named branches.

Supply: Motor innervation. Supplies the levator scapulae, rhomboid minor, and rhomboid major muscles.

Complete Anatomy
The world's most advanced 3D anatomy platform
Try it for Free

Origin

The dorsal scapular nerve is a branch of the anterior ramus of the fifth cervical nerve (the C5 root of the brachial plexus).

Course

Shortly after its origin, the dorsal scapular nerve typically pierces the scalenus medius muscle. It then runs slightly posterior to join up with the dorsal scapular artery. Together with this artery, the nerve runs down the medial border of the scapula, deep to the levator scapulae and rhomboid muscles, and superficial to the serratus anterior.

Branches

The dorsal scapular nerve has no named branches.

Supplied Structures

The dorsal scapular nerve is a motor nerve. It innervates the levator scapulae, rhomboid minor, and rhomboid major muscles.

Complete Anatomy

The world's most advanced 3D anatomy platform

Complete Anatomy