Suprascapular ligament

Suprascapular Ligament

The Suprascapular Ligament is a ligament in the human body that plays a crucial role in the stability and mobility of the shoulder joint. It is a narrow, flat band that bridges the suprascapular notch, converting it into a foramen.

Anatomy

The suprascapular ligament is located in the upper part of the scapula, or shoulder blade. It extends from the medial side of the suprascapular notch to its lateral side. The ligament is covered by the omohyoid muscle and the sternohyoid muscle, and it is in relation with the transverse scapular artery and transverse scapular vein.

Function

The primary function of the suprascapular ligament is to stabilize the suprascapular nerve, which passes beneath it. This nerve provides sensory and motor innervation to the supraspinatus muscle and infraspinatus muscle, which are two of the four muscles of the rotator cuff. By protecting and stabilizing the suprascapular nerve, the ligament helps to ensure the proper functioning of the shoulder joint.

Clinical Significance

Injury or damage to the suprascapular ligament can lead to a condition known as suprascapular nerve entrapment, which can cause shoulder pain and weakness. This condition is often seen in athletes who engage in sports that involve repetitive overhead movements, such as baseball and volleyball. Treatment typically involves physical therapy, pain management, and in some cases, surgery to release the entrapped nerve.

See Also

• Scapula
• Suprascapular notch
• Suprascapular nerve
• Supraspinatus muscle
• Infraspinatus muscle