The word "nervus thoracodorsalis" is a Latin term used to refer to a nerve that runs along the thoracic and dorsal regions of the body. The spelling of this word corresponds to its phonetic pronunciation, with each letter representing a specific sound. Using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), the pronunciation of this word is "ˈnɛrvəs θɔrəkodoʊrˈseɪlɪs". This system of notation allows for accurate phonetic spelling, ensuring that the Correct pronunciation of complex words is maintained across linguistic boundaries.
Nervus thoracodorsalis, also known as the thoracodorsal nerve, is a peripheral nerve of the human body that arises from the roots of the brachial plexus, specifically from the posterior cord formed by the union of the fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth cervical spinal nerves (C5-C8).
This nerve follows a course within the axilla region, running downwards towards the upper limbs. It innervates the latissimus dorsi muscle, which is a large, triangular muscle located in the lower back region. The latissimus dorsi muscle plays a crucial role in the movement and stabilization of the shoulder joint, as well as in the movements of the upper limb, including extension, adduction, and medial rotation.
The nervus thoracodorsalis provides motor innervation to the latissimus dorsi muscle, enabling its contraction and facilitating movements of the upper limb. In addition to its motor function, this nerve also conveys sensory information from the skin covering the latissimus dorsi muscle, although its sensory contribution is limited.
Damage or injury to the nervus thoracodorsalis can result in weakness or dysfunction of the latissimus dorsi muscle, leading to impairment in the movement and functionality of the shoulder joint and upper limb. In clinical practice, understanding the anatomical course and role of the nervus thoracodorsalis is essential for diagnosing and treating conditions or injuries affecting this nerve.
Thoracodorsal nerve, long subscapular nerve, arises from the 6th and 7th cervical nerves and supplies the latissimus dorsi muscle.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word nervus thoracodorsalis is a Latin term that combines two words: nervus meaning nerve, and thoracodorsalis which is a compound word made up of thoraco meaning chest and dorsalis meaning back, pertaining to the area of the back. Therefore, the etymology of nervus thoracodorsalis can be understood as nerve of the chest and back.