C5T1

C5-T1 refers to the spinal nerve roots spanning from C5 through T1. These ventral rami contribute to the formation of the brachial plexus, a network that provides motor and sensory innervation to the upper limb.

Anatomically, the five roots C5, C6, C7, C8, and T1 emerge from the spinal cord and pass through the neck. They combine to form three trunks (upper, middle, lower), which divide into anterior and posterior divisions. These divisions reorganize into three cords (lateral, posterior, medial), from which the major nerves of the upper limb arise, including the musculocutaneous, axillary, radial, median, and ulnar nerves. The plexus also gives rise to multiple cutaneous branches that supply sensation to the shoulder, arm, forearm, and hand.

Functionally, the C5-T1 nerve roots contribute to both motor control and sensory perception of the shoulder, arm, forearm, and hand. The distribution of functions reflects the plexus organization: different roots contribute to specific nerves that control intrinsic hand movements, elbow and shoulder actions, and corresponding sensory areas.

Clinical relevance centers on injuries or compression affecting these levels, such as cervical radiculopathy or brachial plexus injuries. Presentation varies with the specific root or trunk involved, ranging from shoulder weakness to hand paralysis. Diagnosis usually combines neurological examination with imaging or electrodiagnostic studies, and treatment ranges from physical therapy to surgical intervention in selected cases.