Superficial Branch of the Radial Nerve from a Posterior Position

Description

Running along the posterolateral forearm, the superficial branch of the radial nerve (ramus superficialis nervi radialis) is traced as it courses deep to brachioradialis in the distal third, then becomes subcutaneous proximal to the radial styloid to enter the dorsum of the hand. Radius and ulna form the longitudinal bony framework from the elbow to the wrist, with the carpal bones, metacarpals, and dorsal phalanges aligned distally. On the dorsal wrist, the nerve fans into terminal digital branches that pass superficial to the extensor tendons and spread over the dorsoradial hand. Posterior positioning makes the cutaneous territory easy to teach: dorsal thumb, dorsal index and middle digits, and the radial half of the ring finger typically receive sensation proximally, while the nail beds remain median nerve. Clinically, this is the nerve irritated in Wartenberg syndrome (cheiralgia paresthetica), often from tight watchbands, handcuffs, or repetitive pronation, and it is at risk during first dorsal compartment release for de Quervain tenosynovitis. Small nerve, big consequences. Educators will find this plate fits cleanly into upper-limb anatomy labs when correlating surface landmarks at the distal radius with sensory loss patterns on the back of the hand. It also supports surgical and anesthesia teaching on dorsal wrist approaches, superficial radial nerve blocks near the radial styloid, and iatrogenic nerve injury discussions in orthopedic and hand surgery publications. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.