Supraspinatus

Supraspinatus is a relatively small muscle of the upper arm that is part of the rotator cuff. It is situated in the supraspinatus fossa, a concave depression in the rear portion of the scapula, or shoulder blade. The primary function of the supraspinatus is to assist with the abduction of the arm, which is the action of raising the arm out to the side of the body.

Anatomy

The supraspinatus muscle originates from the supraspinatus fossa, a major part of the scapula, and inserts into the greater tubercle of the humerus. It is one of the four muscles that make up the rotator cuff, along with the infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis muscles.

Function

The supraspinatus muscle assists with the abduction of the arm at the shoulder joint. It also helps to stabilize the shoulder joint by keeping the head of the humerus firmly pressed against the glenoid fossa of the scapula.

Clinical significance

Injuries to the supraspinatus muscle are relatively common, particularly in athletes and older adults. These injuries can result from acute trauma or from chronic overuse. The most common injury to the supraspinatus is a rotator cuff tear, which can cause significant pain and disability.

See also

• Rotator cuff
• Shoulder joint
• Scapula
• Humerus

Supraspinatus Resources
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