Supraspinatous fossa

Supraspinatous fossa is a significant anatomical feature of the scapula, or shoulder blade, in the human body. It is a shallow, concave surface located on the dorsal aspect of the scapula, superior to the spine. The supraspinatous fossa is named for the supraspinatus muscle which originates from this fossa.

Etymology

The term "supraspinatous" is derived from the Latin words "supra," meaning above, and "spina," meaning spine. The term "fossa" is also Latin in origin, meaning a ditch or trench. Thus, the supraspinatous fossa is a trench located above the spine of the scapula.

Anatomy

The supraspinatous fossa is a smooth, concave surface located on the dorsal aspect of the scapula, superior to the spine. It is covered by a thin layer of compact bone, and is bounded by the superior and medial borders of the scapula. The supraspinatous fossa gives origin to the supraspinatus muscle, one of the four muscles of the rotator cuff.

Clinical Significance

Due to its location and the muscle it houses, the supraspinatous fossa is clinically significant in conditions affecting the shoulder joint. Injuries or conditions that cause inflammation or degeneration of the supraspinatus muscle, such as rotator cuff tears, can lead to pain and limited mobility in the shoulder.

Related Terms

• Scapula: The bone in the upper back that connects the humerus (upper arm bone) with the clavicle (collar bone).
• Supraspinatus muscle: A muscle of the upper back that runs from the supraspinatous fossa to the humerus.
• Rotator cuff: A group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint, providing stability and enabling a wide range of shoulder movements.

Supraspinatous fossa Resources
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