Suprascapular nerve

Suprascapular nerve is a nerve that arises from the brachial plexus, specifically from the upper trunk formed by the fifth and sixth cervical nerves. It is responsible for the innervation of the supraspinatus muscle and infraspinatus muscle, which are part of the rotator cuff of the shoulder.

Etymology

The term "suprascapular" is derived from the Latin words "supra," meaning above, and "scapula," referring to the shoulder blade. The nerve is named for its location above the scapula in the human body.

Anatomy

The suprascapular nerve originates from the upper trunk of the brachial plexus, which is formed by the union of the fifth and sixth cervical nerves. It runs laterally and downwards, passing through the suprascapular notch under the superior transverse scapular ligament. It then divides into branches that innervate the supraspinatus and infraspinatus muscles.

Function

The primary function of the suprascapular nerve is to provide motor innervation to the supraspinatus and infraspinatus muscles. These muscles are part of the rotator cuff, a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder. The supraspinatus muscle initiates abduction of the arm, while the infraspinatus muscle is involved in lateral rotation of the arm.

Clinical significance

Injury to the suprascapular nerve can result in weakness and atrophy of the supraspinatus and infraspinatus muscles, leading to difficulty in abducting and laterally rotating the arm. This condition is known as suprascapular nerve entrapment or suprascapular neuropathy.

See also

• Brachial plexus
• Supraspinatus muscle
• Infraspinatus muscle
• Rotator cuff

References

Suprascapular nerve Resources
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