Arteries are blood vessels that transport oxygen-rich blood away from the heart to various tissues and organs throughout the body. Delivering oxygen, nutrients, and hormones to support cellular function, understanding the location of major arteries is useful knowledge for general health awareness and in situations requiring immediate attention.
The Brachial Artery: Primary Artery of the Upper Arm
The brachial artery is the main artery supplying the upper arm. It begins as a continuation of the axillary artery in the shoulder region. It courses down the inner side of the arm.
This artery runs parallel to the humerus, the long bone of the upper arm, and is situated along the front of the biceps muscle. As it descends, the brachial artery reaches the cubital fossa, the indentation in front of the elbow. Its pulse can be felt medial to the biceps tendon in this area, which is where blood pressure is measured.
Forearm Arteries: Continuations of the Brachial Artery
Upon reaching the cubital fossa, the brachial artery divides into two arteries in the forearm: the radial artery and the ulnar artery. These vessels ensure continued blood supply to the lower arm and hand.
The radial artery travels along the lateral side of the forearm, which is the side closer to the thumb. It runs between the brachioradialis and flexor carpi radialis muscles. Conversely, the ulnar artery descends along the medial side of the forearm, positioned closer to the pinky finger. It passes between the flexor digitorum superficialis and flexor carpi ulnaris muscles. Both arteries extend down to the wrist and into the hand.
Importance of Arm Arteries: Pulse and Injury
Knowledge of these arm arteries has practical applications for assessing circulation and managing injuries. The radial artery at the wrist is a common site for pulse checks. Its superficial location on the thumb side of the wrist allows for easy palpation, allowing for easy palpation of the rhythmic heartbeat.
Understanding the location of these arteries is important in the event of an injury. Deep cuts to the arm can damage an artery, causing blood loss. Arterial bleeding is characterized by bright red, spurting blood due to high pressure from the heart. In such situations, applying firm, direct pressure to the wound is a primary first aid measure to control bleeding.