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[edit | edit source]
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[edit | edit source]
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[edit | edit source]
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[edit | edit source]
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[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
Suprascapular nerve Resources | |
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD