What parts of the body does the radial nerve and its branches supply?

The radial nerve and its branches primarily supply the thumb, the side of the arm, and the back of the hand. This nerve is responsible for the motor and sensory innervation of these areas. It innervates the posterior aspect of the arm and forearm, allowing for the extension of the elbow, wrist, and fingers, as well as providing sensation to the skin on the back of the hand and the radial side of the thumb.

Understanding the anatomy and function of the radial nerve is key for professionals in fields such as esthetics and other healthcare practices, as it can influence areas related to treatment and care. The choices that mention areas like the wrist and fingers or the elbow and shoulder do not accurately encapsulate the primary distribution and functions linked to the radial nerve, which focuses more on the posterior aspects rather than the anterior or the central regions of the arm and hand.