Infraspinous fascia

Infraspinous fascia is a fibrous membrane that covers the Infraspinatus and Teres major muscles in the human body. It is part of the deep fascia, a layer of connective tissue which envelops the muscles and other organs of the body.

Anatomy

The Infraspinous fascia is located in the scapular region, specifically covering the Infraspinatus and Teres major muscles. It is a thin, fibrous sheet that is continuous with the Supraspinatus fascia above and the Subscapular fascia below.

The Infraspinous fascia is attached to the medial and lateral borders of the scapula, and it extends laterally to the humerus. It serves to hold the muscles in place and provide a smooth surface for them to move against.

Function

The primary function of the Infraspinous fascia is to provide structural support and protection to the muscles it covers. It also plays a role in the movement of the shoulder joint, as it allows the muscles to glide smoothly over each other during movement.

In addition, the Infraspinous fascia, like other fasciae in the body, is involved in proprioception, the body's ability to sense its own position, motion, and equilibrium. This is due to the presence of mechanoreceptors within the fascia that respond to mechanical pressure and stretch.

Clinical significance

Injuries or disorders affecting the Infraspinous fascia can lead to pain and restricted movement in the shoulder. These can include fasciitis, a condition characterized by inflammation of the fascia, and adhesive capsulitis, also known as frozen shoulder.

Treatment for these conditions may involve physical therapy, medication, or in severe cases, surgery. Understanding the anatomy and function of the Infraspinous fascia is therefore important in the diagnosis and treatment of shoulder disorders.

See also

• Fascia
• Infraspinatus muscle
• Teres major muscle
• Scapula