Which artery is commonly used to measure blood pressure in the arm?

The brachial artery is the primary artery used to measure blood pressure in the arm because of its anatomical position and accessibility. Located in the upper arm, the brachial artery is a continuation of the axillary artery and branches into the radial and ulnar arteries at the elbow. This artery provides a direct and reliable reading because it is sufficiently deep within the arm, reducing interference from superficial structures and external factors.

Measuring blood pressure involves occluding the artery with a sphygmomanometer, and the brachial artery is ideally situated for this purpose. It allows for accurate detection of the systolic and diastolic pressures as the cuff is inflated and deflated. Other arteries in the arm, such as the radial or ulnar, while important for other assessments, are not as commonly used for blood pressure measurements because they can present variability in readings or may not be as easily compressed compared to the brachial artery.

By utilizing the brachial artery, healthcare professionals can ensure standardized, reproducible, and accurate measurements, making it the preferred site for blood pressure checks.