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| Supraspinatus muscle |
The supraspinatus muscle is one of the four muscles that make up the rotator cuff of the shoulder joint. It is located on the upper back of the scapula (shoulder blade), above the spine of the scapula.
Origin: The supraspinatus muscle originates from the supraspinous fossa, a shallow depression on the posterior (back) surface of the scapula.
Insertion: It inserts on the superior (upper) part of the greater tubercle of the humerus, which is a bony prominence on the upper part of the upper arm bone.
Function: The supraspinatus muscle is responsible for initiating and assisting in the abduction (lifting away from the body) of the arm at the shoulder joint. It also helps to stabilize the shoulder joint during movement.
Nerve supply: The supraspinatus muscle is innervated by the suprascapular nerve, which arises from the upper trunk of the brachial plexus.
Blood supply: The supraspinatus muscle is supplied by branches of the suprascapular artery and the posterior circumflex humeral artery.
Origin of supraspinatus muscle
The supraspinatus muscle originates from the supraspinous fossa, which is a shallow depression on the posterior (back) surface of the scapula (shoulder blade). The supraspinous fossa is located above the spine of the scapula and is bounded laterally by the suprascapular notch. The muscle arises from the medial two-thirds of the fossa, while the lateral third is occupied by the infraspinatus muscle. The supraspinatus muscle, along with the other three muscles of the rotator cuff, plays a crucial role in stabilizing the shoulder joint and enabling movements such as abduction (lifting the arm away from the body), flexion (lifting the arm forward), and internal and external rotation of the shoulder.
Insertion
The supraspinatus muscle inserts on the superior (upper) facet of the greater tubercle of the humerus, which is a bony prominence on the upper part of the upper arm bone. The tendon of the supraspinatus muscle passes through a space called the subacromial space, which is formed by the acromion (a bony projection of the scapula) and the coracoacromial ligament (a strong band of connective tissue that extends between the coracoid process of the scapula and the acromion). The insertion of the supraspinatus muscle on the greater tubercle of the humerus is important for its role in initiating and assisting in the abduction (lifting away from the body) of the arm at the shoulder joint.
Nerve Supply
The supraspinatus muscle is innervated by the suprascapular nerve, which arises from the upper trunk of the brachial plexus. The suprascapular nerve runs from the brachial plexus in the neck, through the suprascapular notch, and into the supraspinous fossa where it innervates the supraspinatus muscle. The suprascapular nerve also innervates the infraspinatus muscle, another muscle of the rotator cuff, and provides sensation to the shoulder joint. Damage or compression of the suprascapular nerve can result in weakness or atrophy of the supraspinatus and infraspinatus muscles, leading to shoulder dysfunction and pain.
Blood Supply
The blood supply to the supraspinatus muscle is mainly provided by the suprascapular artery, a branch of the thyrocervical trunk, which arises from the subclavian artery. The suprascapular artery runs along the upper border of the scapula and gives off several branches that supply blood to the supraspinatus muscle, as well as to the other muscles of the rotator cuff and the shoulder joint capsule. The supraspinatus muscle also receives a secondary blood supply from the posterior circumflex humeral artery, which is a branch of the axillary artery. The arterial supply to the supraspinatus muscle is important for its function and healing, as well as for the prevention of tissue damage and ischemia (lack of blood flow) during physical activity and injury.
Function of Supraspinatus muscle
The supraspinatus muscle plays an important role in the movement and stabilization of the shoulder joint. Its main function is to initiate and assist in the abduction (lifting away from the body) of the arm at the shoulder joint, especially during the first 15-30 degrees of the movement. This is the initial phase of raising the arm, before other muscles such as the deltoid take over. The supraspinatus muscle also helps to stabilize the head of the humerus (upper arm bone) within the shallow glenoid fossa (shoulder socket) of the scapula during movement, which helps to prevent dislocation or impingement of the joint. Additionally, the supraspinatus muscle assists in the internal and external rotation of the shoulder, and can help to control the scapular motion during arm elevation. Injuries or tears to the supraspinatus muscle can lead to shoulder pain, weakness, and limited range of motion, and are a common cause of rotator cuff dysfunction.
Relation
The supraspinatus muscle is one of the four muscles that make up the rotator cuff of the shoulder joint, along with the infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis muscles. The supraspinatus muscle is located on the upper back of the scapula (shoulder blade), above the spine of the scapula and below the trapezius muscle. The muscle belly lies deep to the deltoid muscle and is separated from it by a layer of connective tissue. The supraspinatus muscle is closely related to other structures within the shoulder joint, including the acromion (a bony projection of the scapula), the coracoid process (a bony projection of the scapula), and the subacromial bursa (a fluid-filled sac that reduces friction between the supraspinatus tendon and the acromion). The supraspinatus muscle also shares a common nerve supply with the infraspinatus muscle, as both muscles are innervated by the suprascapular nerve. The close relationship of the supraspinatus muscle with other structures in the shoulder joint highlights the importance of its function in maintaining shoulder stability and movement.
Exercise of Supraspinatus muscle
Strengthening exercises for the supraspinatus muscle can help improve shoulder stability, reduce the risk of injury, and relieve shoulder pain. Here are some exercises that target the supraspinatus muscle:
- Side-lying external rotation: Lie on your side with your affected arm on top. Bend your elbow to 90 degrees and keep it close to your side. Use a light dumbbell or resistance band to externally rotate your arm away from your body. Pause and slowly return to the starting position. Repeat for 10-15 repetitions, and then switch sides.
- Prone horizontal abduction: Lie face down on a bench or stability ball with your arms hanging down towards the floor, palms facing each other. Raise your arms up to the level of your shoulders, keeping your elbows straight, and then slowly lower them back down. Repeat for 10-15 repetitions.
- Full can exercise: Stand with your arms at your sides and hold a light dumbbell in each hand. Keeping your thumbs pointing up, raise your arms out to the side to shoulder height. Hold for a few seconds, and then lower your arms back down. Repeat for 10-15 repetitions.
It's important to start with light resistance and gradually increase the weight or resistance as you get stronger. If you have any shoulder pain or discomfort, stop the exercise and consult a healthcare professional.
Stretching Exercise of supraspinatus muscle
Stretching exercises for the supraspinatus muscle can help improve flexibility, reduce tension, and relieve shoulder pain. Here are some stretches that target the supraspinatus muscle:
Doorway stretch: Stand in a doorway with your arms at your sides and your palms facing forward. Place your forearms against the door frame at shoulder height, and then lean forward to feel a stretch in your shoulders. Hold for 15-30 seconds, and then release.
Cross-body stretch: Stand or sit with your affected arm across your chest. Use your other hand to gently pull your arm towards your chest until you feel a stretch in your shoulder. Hold for 15-30 seconds, and then release. Repeat on the other side.
Sleeper stretch: Lie on your side with your affected arm on top. Bend your elbow to 90 degrees and keep it close to your body. Use your other hand to gently push your forearm towards the ground until you feel a stretch in your shoulder. Hold for 15-30 seconds, and then release. Repeat on the other side.
It's important to stretch gently and slowly, and not to force the stretch beyond your comfort level. If you have any shoulder pain or discomfort, stop the stretch and consult a healthcare professional.
Clinical Significance
The supraspinatus muscle is clinically significant as it is one of the four muscles that make up the rotator cuff of the shoulder joint, which plays a crucial role in stabilizing the shoulder and enabling movement. Injuries or tears to the supraspinatus muscle can lead to rotator cuff dysfunction, which can cause pain, weakness, and limited range of motion in the shoulder joint.
Supraspinatus tears are a common cause of shoulder pain and dysfunction, especially in athletes and individuals who engage in repetitive overhead activities. The risk of supraspinatus injury increases with age, and can be exacerbated by poor posture, overuse, and trauma. In some cases, conservative treatments such as rest, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications may be sufficient to manage the symptoms of a supraspinatus injury. However, in severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the damaged muscle or tendon.
Clinical evaluation of the supraspinatus muscle may involve a physical examination, imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans, and functional tests to assess shoulder stability and range of motion. Treatment may include a combination of rest, physical therapy, medication, and/or surgery, depending on the severity of the injury and the individual's needs.
Supraspinatus muscle pain
Pain in the supraspinatus muscle can be caused by a variety of factors, including overuse, trauma, rotator cuff tears, or impingement of the supraspinatus tendon or bursa. Here are some common symptoms associated with supraspinatus muscle pain:
Pain in the shoulder: The most common symptom of supraspinatus muscle pain is pain in the shoulder, particularly in the area above the shoulder blade.
Weakness or stiffness: Individuals with supraspinatus muscle pain may also experience weakness or stiffness in the shoulder joint, which can limit range of motion.
Pain with overhead activities: Pain in the supraspinatus muscle can be exacerbated by activities that involve reaching overhead, such as lifting objects, throwing a ball, or reaching for a high shelf.
Pain at night: Some individuals with supraspinatus muscle pain may experience pain or discomfort at night, particularly when lying on the affected side.
Muscle spasms: In some cases, supraspinatus muscle pain may be accompanied by muscle spasms, which can further exacerbate pain and limit mobility.
Treatment for supraspinatus muscle pain depends on the underlying cause and severity of the injury. Conservative treatments such as rest, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications may be sufficient to manage the symptoms of mild to moderate supraspinatus muscle pain. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the damaged muscle or tendon. If you are experiencing symptoms of supraspinatus muscle pain, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.
Where is supraspinatus located?
The supraspinatus muscle is located on the upper back and forms part of the rotator cuff, which is a group of muscles and tendons that surround and stabilize the shoulder joint. Specifically, the supraspinatus muscle originates from the supraspinous fossa of the scapula (shoulder blade) and inserts on the greater tubercle of the humerus (upper arm bone). The muscle runs along the top of the shoulder blade and passes underneath the acromion, which is a bony projection of the shoulder blade that forms the roof of the shoulder joint.
What area of pain is supraspinatus?
The supraspinatus muscle is located on the upper back, and pain in this muscle typically manifests as pain in the shoulder. More specifically, pain from supraspinatus muscle injury or strain is usually felt in the area above the shoulder blade, and can radiate down the arm. The pain may be aggravated by overhead activities such as reaching, lifting, or throwing. In some cases, supraspinatus muscle pain may also be accompanied by weakness or stiffness in the shoulder joint, as well as muscle spasms. If you are experiencing pain in the shoulder or upper back, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.
Test for supraspinatus muscle
There are several clinical tests that can be used to evaluate the function of the supraspinatus muscle, which is one of the muscles that make up the rotator cuff. Here are some common tests used to assess the supraspinatus muscle:
Empty can test: In this test, the patient is asked to abduct the arm to 90 degrees and internally rotate the arm so that the thumb points down, like pouring out a can. The examiner then resists downward pressure applied to the arm. A positive test result may indicate supraspinatus muscle weakness or injury.
Drop arm test: In this test, the patient is asked to abduct the arm to 90 degrees and then slowly lower the arm to the side. A positive test result occurs if the patient is unable to maintain the position or experiences sudden pain during the movement, which may indicate a supraspinatus muscle tear or injury.
External rotation test: In this test, the patient is asked to hold the elbow against the side and then externally rotate the arm. The examiner then applies resistance to the arm. A positive test result may indicate supraspinatus muscle weakness or injury.
Neer impingement test: In this test, the examiner passively elevates the patient's arm while stabilizing the scapula. A positive test result occurs if the patient experiences pain in the anterior shoulder, which may indicate impingement of the supraspinatus tendon or bursa.
It is important to note that clinical tests are not always conclusive and should be used in conjunction with other diagnostic methods, such as imaging studies like X-rays or MRI scans, to accurately diagnose supraspinatus muscle injuries. It is best to consult with a healthcare professional if you are experiencing shoulder pain or have concerns about your shoulder function.
Supraspinatus muscle tendon
The supraspinatus muscle has a long tendon that passes under the acromion (a bony projection of the shoulder blade that forms the roof of the shoulder joint) and attaches to the greater tubercle of the humerus (upper arm bone). The supraspinatus tendon is an important part of the rotator cuff and helps to stabilize and rotate the shoulder joint.
However, the supraspinatus tendon is also vulnerable to injury and degeneration, especially in athletes or individuals who perform repetitive overhead motions, such as throwing a baseball or lifting weights. Injuries to the supraspinatus tendon can range from minor strains or tendinitis to more severe tears or ruptures.
Symptoms of supraspinatus tendon injuries may include pain in the shoulder, weakness or loss of function in the arm, and difficulty raising or lowering the arm. Treatment for supraspinatus tendon injuries typically depends on the severity of the injury and may include rest, physical therapy, medication, or surgery in more severe cases. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional if you are experiencing shoulder pain or have concerns about your shoulder function.
Supraspinatus muscle strain
A strain of the supraspinatus muscle occurs when the muscle is stretched or torn due to overuse or trauma. This can happen as a result of repetitive overhead movements or a sudden injury, such as a fall or impact to the shoulder.
Symptoms of a supraspinatus muscle strain can include pain in the shoulder or upper back, weakness in the arm or shoulder, limited range of motion, and difficulty performing overhead activities. In some cases, a popping or snapping sensation may be felt at the time of injury.
Treatment for a supraspinatus muscle strain typically involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) to reduce pain and swelling. Over-the-counter pain medication and physical therapy may also be recommended to help alleviate symptoms and restore strength and flexibility in the shoulder.
In more severe cases, such as a complete tear of the muscle, surgery may be necessary to repair the damage. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional if you suspect you have a supraspinatus muscle strain or are experiencing any symptoms of a shoulder injury.
What causes pain in the supraspinatus muscle?
Pain in the supraspinatus muscle can be caused by a number of factors, including overuse, strain, or injury. Here are some common causes of supraspinatus muscle pain:
Rotator cuff injury: The supraspinatus muscle is one of the four muscles that make up the rotator cuff, and injuries to the rotator cuff can cause pain and weakness in the shoulder. Rotator cuff injuries can occur as a result of overuse, trauma, or degeneration.
Tendinitis: Tendinitis is a condition where the tendon becomes inflamed due to overuse or repetitive motions. In the case of the supraspinatus muscle, tendinitis can cause pain and discomfort in the shoulder.
Bursitis: Bursitis is inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that helps to cushion the joint. Inflammation of the bursa in the shoulder joint can cause pain in the supraspinatus muscle.
Impingement syndrome: Impingement syndrome occurs when the tendons or bursa in the shoulder become compressed or pinched. This can cause pain in the supraspinatus muscle, as well as weakness and limited range of motion.
Frozen shoulder: Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition where the shoulder joint becomes stiff and painful. This can cause pain and discomfort in the supraspinatus muscle, as well as other muscles in the shoulder.
If you are experiencing shoulder pain or have concerns about your shoulder function, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
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