The term "nervus dorsalis scapulae" refers to a specific nerve in the human body.
The nervus dorsalis scapulae is a branch of the brachial plexus, which is a network of nerves that innervates the upper limb. Specifically, this nerve arises from the dorsal scapular nerve, which is formed by the roots of the fifth cervical spinal nerve (C5) and occasionally the fourth cervical spinal nerve (C4). The dorsal scapular nerve then branches off to form the nervus dorsalis scapulae.
The nervus dorsalis scapulae runs posteriorly, or towards the back, to innervate certain muscles in the shoulder region. It supplies motor innervation to the rhomboid major, rhomboid minor, and the levator scapulae muscles. These muscles play key roles in the movement and stability of the shoulder blade (scapula) and are responsible for actions such as retracting, elevating, and rotating the scapula.
Damage or injury to the nervus dorsalis scapulae can result in weakness or paralysis of the aforementioned muscles, leading to symptoms such as difficulty in raising the arm overhead or maintaining proper posture. Clinically, this nerve can be affected by various conditions, including nerve compression, trauma, or even brachial plexus disorders.
In summary, the nervus dorsalis scapulae is a nerve that originates from the brachial plexus and supplies motor innervation to the rhomboid and levator scapulae muscles. Its proper functioning is crucial for the proper movement and stability of the shoulder blade.
