Nerve point of neck

Nerve point of neck

The nerve point of the neck, also known as Erb's point, is a significant anatomical landmark located in the neck. It is a site where several important nerves emerge from behind the sternocleidomastoid muscle and become superficial. This point is clinically important for various medical procedures and diagnostic purposes.

Anatomy

The nerve point of the neck is situated approximately midway along the posterior border of the sternocleidomastoid muscle. The nerves that emerge at this point include:

• The lesser occipital nerve
• The great auricular nerve
• The transverse cervical nerve
• The supraclavicular nerves

These nerves are branches of the cervical plexus, which is formed by the anterior rami of the first four cervical spinal nerves (C1-C4).

Clinical Significance

The nerve point of the neck is often used as a landmark for regional anesthesia, particularly in procedures involving the neck and shoulder. Anesthetic injections at this point can block the sensory nerves, providing pain relief for surgeries or other medical interventions.

Additionally, the nerve point of the neck is a key area for the diagnosis of certain neurological conditions. Damage or compression of the nerves at this point can lead to sensory deficits or pain in the areas supplied by these nerves.

Related Structures

• Cervical plexus
• Sternocleidomastoid muscle
• Brachial plexus
• Spinal nerves

See Also

• Cervical plexus block
• Anatomy of the neck
• Peripheral nerve block