Clavicular part of deltoid muscle

Pars clavicularis musculi deltoidei

  • Related terms: Clavicular part; Deltoid (Clavicular part); Deltoid: Clavicular part; Deltoid : Clavicular part; Deltoid - Clavicular part

Definition

Muhammad A. Javaid

Clavicular part of deltoid muscle

Origin

Clavicle

Insertion

Deltoid tuberosity of the humerus

Artery

Primarily, the posterior circumflex humeral artery

Innervation

Axillary nerve (C5, C6)

Action

Flexion, medial rotation, and also assists in shoulder abduction.

Origin

The clavicular part originates from the anterior border of the lateral one-third of the clavicle.

Insertion

The fibers converge with the other parts of the deltoid to form a thick tendon, which inserts into the deltoid tuberosity on the humerus.

Arterial Supply

Primarily supplied by the posterior circumflex humeral artery.

Innervation

The axillary nerve, derived from the fifth and sixth cervical spinal roots (C5, C6), provides the innervation.

Actions

  • The clavicular part primarily contributes to flexion and medial (internal) rotation of the arm.

  • This portion also assists in arm abduction, working in coordination with the acromial and scapular parts.

Structure

The clavicular fibers are arranged in a unipennate pattern, converging obliquely backward and laterally, which supports both mobility and stability during shoulder movements.

References

  • Elzanie A, Varacallo MA. Anatomy, Shoulder and Upper Limb, Deltoid Muscle. [Updated 2024 Jan 30]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537056/

  • Moser T, Lecours J, Michaud J, Bureau NJ, Guillin R, Cardinal É. The deltoid, a forgotten muscle of the shoulder. Skeletal Radiol. 2013 Oct;42(10):1361-75. doi: 10.1007/s00256-013-1667-7. Epub 2013 Jun 20. PMID: 23784480.

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