Supraspinatus muscle

Musculus supraspinatus

Definition

Muhammad A. Javaid

Supraspinatus muscle

Origin

Supraspinous fossa of the scapula

Insertion

Superior facet of the greater tubercle of the humerus

Artery

Suprascapular and dorsal scapular arteries

Innervation

Suprascapular nerve

Action

Abduction of the arm and stabilization of the humerus

Antagonist

Infraspinatus, teres minor, pectoralis major, and latissimus dorsi

The supraspinatus muscle, one of the rotator cuff muscles, is located in the supraspinous fossa of the scapula, superior to the scapular spine. Its tendon passes under the acromion process and blends with the joint capsule before inserting onto the superior facet of the greater tubercle of the humerus.

The supraspinatus muscle is vital for initiating arm abduction (first 0-15 degrees) and stabilizing the head of the humerus within the glenoid fossa during joint movements. It is innervated by the suprascapular nerve (C5-C6) from the upper trunk of the brachial plexus, and receives blood supply from the suprascapular and dorsal scapular arteries

References

  • Jeno SH, Munjal A, Schindler GS. Anatomy, Shoulder and Upper Limb, Arm Supraspinatus Muscle. [Updated 2023 Aug 28]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537202/

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