Cervical spinal nerve 8

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Cervical spinal nerve 8 (C8) is one of the eight cervical spinal nerves in the human body. It is part of the peripheral nervous system and plays a crucial role in the innervation of the upper limbs.

Anatomy

The cervical spinal nerves are a group of eight pairs of nerves that originate from the cervical vertebrae in the spinal column. The C8 nerve emerges from the spinal cord between the seventh cervical vertebra (C7) and the first thoracic vertebra (T1). Unlike the other cervical nerves, which exit above their corresponding vertebrae, the C8 nerve exits below the C7 vertebra.

Function

The C8 nerve is responsible for providing motor and sensory innervation to parts of the upper limb. It innervates the muscles involved in the movement of the fingers and hand, including the flexor digitorum profundus, flexor carpi ulnaris, and the intrinsic muscles of the hand. Sensory innervation from the C8 nerve covers the medial aspect of the forearm and hand, including the ring and little fingers.

Clinical Significance

Damage or compression of the C8 nerve can lead to a condition known as cervical radiculopathy. Symptoms of C8 radiculopathy may include pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the areas innervated by the C8 nerve. Common causes of C8 nerve compression include herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and degenerative disc disease.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of C8 nerve issues typically involves a combination of patient history, physical examination, and imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans. Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies may also be used to assess the function of the nerve.

Treatment options for C8 nerve compression may include conservative measures such as physical therapy, medications, and corticosteroid injections. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to relieve the pressure on the nerve.

Related Pages

• Cervical spinal nerves
• Peripheral nervous system
• Cervical vertebrae
• Cervical radiculopathy
• Herniated disc
• Spinal stenosis
• Degenerative disc disease