Supraspinatus Muscle – Anatomy Breakdown Video & Clinical Guide
The Supraspinatus is one of the four rotator cuff muscles and is notorious for its role in shoulder pain and dysfunction. In this video, we’ll break down its origin, insertion, function, innervation, and clinical relevance. Perfect for students, clinicians, trainers, or anyone wanting a deeper understanding of shoulder anatomy.
Watch the video below and read on for practical, clinically-focused insights.
Quick Hits
The Supraspinatus is a small but critical muscle of the rotator cuff, sitting in the supraspinous fossa of the scapula and passing beneath the acromion.
Origin: Supraspinous fossa of the scapula.
Insertion: Superior facet of the greater tubercle of the humerus.
Innervation: Suprascapular nerve (C5, C6).
Actions: Primarily initiates shoulder abduction (first ~15 degrees) before the deltoid takes over. Also contributes to compressing the humeral head into the glenoid, providing dynamic stability.
Its path under the acromion makes it vulnerable to impingement and tendinopathy, particularly in overhead athletes and individuals with poor scapular mechanics.
Clinical Relevance
Clinically, the supraspinatus is the most commonly injured rotator cuff muscle, often subject to tendinopathy or partial-thickness tears due to repetitive overhead activities and subacromial impingement.
Assessment includes pain with resisted abduction, positive empty can or full can tests, and tenderness along the greater tubercle. Imaging often reveals tendinopathy or tears in symptomatic patients.
Effective rehabilitation focuses on restoring scapular control, optimizing rotator cuff strength and endurance, and correcting postural contributors. Exercises often include side-lying external rotation, scaption with light resistance, and scapular stabilization drills.
What’s Next
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