Which nerve impingement is associated with winging of the scapula?

The association of winging of the scapula with nerve impingement is specifically linked to the long thoracic nerve. This nerve innervates the serratus anterior muscle, which plays a crucial role in stabilizing the scapula against the thoracic wall. When the long thoracic nerve is compromised, it can lead to weakness or paralysis of the serratus anterior, resulting in the characteristic winging appearance of the scapula during arm movement.

In contrast, the axillary nerve primarily innervates the deltoid and teres minor muscles, affecting shoulder abduction and external rotation, but it does not directly impact the position of the scapula. The radial nerve is mainly responsible for wrist extension and sensation in the posterior arm and hand but does not relate to scapular positioning. The thoracodorsal nerve innervates the latissimus dorsi muscle, affecting arm extension, adduction, and internal rotation, but does not cause scapular winging. Thus, the link between the long thoracic nerve and winging of the scapula is pivotal in understanding this condition.