The musculocutaneous nerve supplies all three anterior arm muscles (coracobrachialis, biceps, brachialis) and continues as the lateral cutaneous nerve of the forearm. Isolated musculocutaneous neuropathy from compression (backpack palsy, heavy rucksack straps at the shoulder) produces biceps weakness and lateral forearm numbness. Its identification and protection is critical during shoulder arthroplasty through the deltopectoral approach.
| Origin | Lateral cord of the brachial plexus (C5, C6, C7) |
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Backpack palsy from musculocutaneous nerve compression between the coracobrachialis and the coracoid process from heavy shoulder straps produces biceps weakness and lateral forearm paraesthesia — a recognised occupational and military injury. The nerve is at risk during coracoid transfer procedures (Latarjet) and must be identified at the coracobrachialis before coracoid osteotomy.
Musculocutaneous nerve compression from heavy rucksack straps producing biceps weakness and lateral forearm numbness managed with load reduction and physiotherapy.
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