Long thoracic nerve

The **long thoracic nerve** is a peripheral somatic motor nerve that arises from the anterior rami of cervical spinal nerves C5, C6, and C7 as a branch of the brachial plexus[1][2][4]. It descends along the lateral chest wall and provides sole motor innervation to the serratus anterior muscle[1][2][6]. This muscle is essential for protracting and stabilizing the scapula against the rib cage and enabling overhead lifting of the arm. Injury to this nerve can result in paralysis or weakness of the serratus anterior, leading to a clinical condition known as "winged scapula," where the medial border of the scapula protrudes posteriorly when pushing against resistance[1][3][6]. The long thoracic nerve is not considered a therapeutic target such as an enzyme, receptor, transporter, or similar molecule; rather it is an anatomical structure relevant in neurology and orthopedics. **Note:** The long thoracic nerve is not a molecular drug target but an anatomical structure (a peripheral motor nerve). Therefore, - **is_target:** false - **is_incorrect:** true (not a molecular/therapeutic target; should not be classified with receptors/enzymes/etc.)

Other names

External respiratory nerve of BellPosterior thoracic nerveNerve of Bell