The radial artery is a major blood vessel in the forearm that supplies oxygenated blood to the hand and wrist. It runs along the radius bone, which is located on the thumb side of the forearm. The radial artery is commonly used in medical procedures, such as taking a pulse or drawing blood, due to its accessibility. This artery branches off from the brachial artery, which is the main artery of the upper arm. The radial artery further divides into smaller branches that provide blood to the muscles and skin of the forearm and hand, ensuring proper circulation in these areas.