Is this nerve causing your shoulder pain? Let's learn about the Axillary Nerve

Have you ever felt pain in your shoulder, difficulty lifting your arm? Or do you feel like your shoulder is tingling? One reason for these things could be damage to a very important nerve in our shoulder. We are talking about it today. That is the Axillary Nerve. It is very important for you to know exactly about this.

What is the Axillary Nerve?

Simply put, the axillary nerve is one of the five major peripheral nerves that run through your shoulder. This nerve starts in your neck. The nerves that run from your neck down your arm come together to form a network of nerves called the brachial plexus. It's like the wiring system in a house. This network of nerves is what gives movement and sensation to our upper arm. So, the axillary nerve is a very important "wire" in this network.

What other nerves are near the axillary nerve?

All of these nerves work together to control the function of our shoulder and arm. In addition to the axillary nerve, there are several other major nerves in this area.

What are the main functions of this nerve?

The axillary nerve has two main functions.

1. Motor Function: Helps move the muscles around the shoulder. This is essential for things like lifting and rotating the arm.

2. Sensory Function: Provides sensation to the shoulder area. This includes the following:

• Pain
• Location (feeling where the hand is)
• Temperature (feeling hot, cold)
• Contact

Muscles innervated by the axillary nerve

This nerve mainly innervates about three muscles in the shoulder.

• Deltoid muscle: This is the main muscle that helps you lift your arm out to the side and up. It is also the muscle that gives your shoulder its nice rounded shape.
• Teres minor muscle: This muscle helps you rotate your arm outward. Think of it like you're opening a door with a key.
• Triceps muscle: This nerve also innervates part of the triceps muscle, which helps straighten the elbow.

How can the axillary nerve be damaged?

There are several main reasons why this nerve can be damaged. Sometimes these can be things we don't even think about.

Accidents and injuries

• Dislocated shoulder: If the shoulder is dislocated from the joint during a fall, such as from a bicycle or ladder, this nerve can be pulled or crushed.
• Fractures: If the upper arm bone (humerus) breaks, there is a high chance of damage to this nerve that runs nearby.
• Accidents: In an accident where the head and shoulders are suddenly pulled in opposite directions, the nerve network in the neck can be damaged.
• Using crutches: When crutches are used incorrectly, the axillary nerve under the armpit can be compressed.
• Surgical complications: Some shoulder surgeries, such as shoulder arthroscopy, can rarely cause damage to this nerve.

Other medical conditions

Some medical conditions can also affect the functioning of this nerve.

How does a doctor diagnose this condition?

When you go to see a doctor with shoulder pain, he or she will ask you about your symptoms and perform a physical exam. In addition, they may order a number of tests to help determine the exact cause.

• Nerve Conduction Study/Electromyography (NCS/EMG): This tests the electrical signals that travel through nerves and muscles. This is very important to find out if there is nerve damage and where the damage is.
• X-rays: This helps to see if there is a fracture or dislocation of the shoulder.
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): This can take a clear picture of the delicate tissues inside the shoulder, such as the muscles, tendons, and nerves.
• Neuromuscular ultrasound: This is also a modern method used to examine the condition of the nerves.

How can this kind of disorder be prevented?

While we cannot prevent some accidents, there are several things we can do to reduce the risk.

• Be careful about safety: Be very careful when climbing ladders and walking on slippery surfaces. It is best if you can have someone hold the ladder.
• Wear safety equipment: Wear your seatbelt properly when riding in a vehicle. If you play sports, use appropriate safety equipment.
• Use crutches correctly: If you have to use crutches, learn how to use them properly from a physical therapist. Using them incorrectly can pinch a nerve.
• Seek the services of experienced doctors: If you need to undergo shoulder surgery, choose a doctor who is experienced and skilled in the matter.

What time should I see a doctor?

If you are experiencing any discomfort in your shoulder, don't ignore it. Be sure to see a doctor, especially if you have any of the following symptoms:

• If you feel difficulty moving your shoulder or arm.
• If there is numbness or loss of sensation in the shoulder area.
• Especially if it hurts when you raise your arm.
• If you feel a tingling sensation, like an electric shock.

Nerve injuries can take some time to heal. But most of the time, they can be treated with physical therapy or sometimes on their own. Severe damage may require surgery, such as a nerve graft. Therefore, it is very important to see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.