NERVE LIBRARY · Upper limb
Dorsal scapular nerve
Dorsal scapular nerve
Weak scapular retraction; provides information from a proximal root branch when comparing root and plexus lesions.
- Roots / nucleus
- Mainly C5
- Function
- Motor
- 3D protocols
- Advanced localization guide
01Course and sensory territory
No cutaneous sensory territory.
02Motor supply
Rhomboids and part of levator scapulae.
03Localization clues
Weak scapular retraction; provides information from a proximal root branch when comparing root and plexus lesions.
04Combine the studies
Compare rhomboids with serratus, trapezius and other C5 muscles.
Related muscles
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References and further reading
- Neuroanatomy for Nerve Conduction Studies (2017) ↗AANEM · Anatomy course · Link accessed 2026-09-08
- Upper Extremity Proximal Mononeuropathies ↗AAPM&R KnowledgeNow · Society educational review · Link accessed 2026-09-08
Educational synthesis; independent neuromuscular specialist review is pending. Publication dates and compilation dates are distinct. This is an original teaching synthesis; consult the source for complete methods and criteria.