Supraspinous fossa - Upper extremity - Bones of upper limb - e-Anatomy
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Supraspinous fossa

Fossa supraspinata

Definition

Muhammad A. Javaid

The supraspinous fossa is a shallow, concave depression on the dorsal aspect of the scapula, located superior to the scapular spine. This fossa serves as the origin for the supraspinatus muscle, which arises from the medial two-thirds of the fossa. The supraspinatus muscle, as part of the rotator cuff, plays a pivotal role in initiating arm abduction and stabilizing the shoulder joint.

References

  • Miniato MA, Mudreac A, Borger J. Anatomy, Thorax, Scapula. [Updated 2023 Jul 24]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538319/

  • 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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