As a complex system, axons need to extend a long distance to form synapses with next neurons or target cells in the development of nervous system. During this complex movement, neuronal axons form precisely ordered structures in their spatial distribution. In the past, it was thought that the formation of such ordered structures was mainly guided by the chemical concentration gradient of morphogenesis. However, recent studies have found that mechanical cues play an important role in regulating the neurite initiation, elongation and sprouting, nerve fasciculation, and neuron maturation. Thus, axon extension is essentially a mechano-chemical coupling process. This paper discusses the origin of the cellular forces controlling axon growth and pathfinding, the mechanism of axons perceiving mechanical stimuli from the environment, and the mechanism of mechanical force regulating axon extension and related signal transduction. We also discuss how forces are generated and sensed in vivo, and which molecular mechanisms are responsible for responding to mechanical signals. The research in this field will provide important reference for understanding the neurological diseases and nerve regeneration.