Which arteries provide the main blood supply to the arms and hands?

The ulnar and radial arteries are the primary blood vessels that supply blood to the arms and hands. These arteries branch off from the brachial artery, which itself is the continuation of the axillary artery. The ulnar artery primarily supplies the medial side of the forearm and hand, while the radial artery serves the lateral side. Their anatomical positioning and distribution enable them to deliver oxygenated blood efficiently to the various muscles, tissues, and organs of the upper limbs.

The brachial and axillary arteries play supportive roles in the overall blood circulation of the upper extremity, but they are not the direct suppliers to the hands. The radial and femoral arteries relate to different regions, where the femoral artery is primarily focused on the lower extremities. The aorta and subclavian arteries are major vessels in the systemic circulation, but they do not directly supply blood to the hands; instead, they give rise to the branches that will eventually lead to the ulnar and radial arteries. Therefore, the ulnar and radial arteries are correctly identified as the main suppliers to the hands and arms, reflecting their essential roles in the vascular system of the upper limb.