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What Is Brachial Plexus?

Brachial plexus is a network of various nerves that control certain reflexes in the shoulder, arm and hand. Most of these nerves originate near the cervical or neck area of the spine.

  1. Identification

    • The spinal nerve roots that make up the origin of the brachial plexus include the C5, C6, C7 and C8 nerves near the cervical vertebrae and the T1 or first thoracic nerve of the upper back. These nerves extend across the latissimus dorsi muscle, into the shoulder and down the arms.

    Injuries

    • The brachial plexus nerves can be damaged from contact sports, trauma, falls, compression such as a herniated disc, tumors and even childbirth. Most injuries occur when the shoulders are forced down and the head is pushed in the opposite direction.

    Effects

    • Damage to the C-5 nerve root can cause weakness in the deltoid muscle and shoulder pain, according to the article "Cervical Herniated Disc Symptoms and Treatment" at Spine-health.com. Injuries to the C-6 nerve root can cause biceps weakness and pain along the thumb side of the arm and hand. Other nerve roots can cause weakness in the triceps and pain along other parts of the arm and hand.

    Types of Treatment

    • Individuals who have brachial plexus injuries can treat their pain and inflammation by resting, using ice packs and taking anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen and naproxen.

    Considerations

    • Those who suspect an injury to their brachial plexus regions should see a doctor for a proper diagnosis. Surgery may be required if any of the nerves have been severed or pulled away from the spinal cord area.

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