Bone
Scapula
Mobile platform for the shoulder muscles
High-yield
The scapular spine separates the supraspinous and infraspinous fossae, then continues laterally into the acromion. The coracoid projects forward; the glenoid faces toward the upper arm.
Overview
The shoulder blade lies behind the rib cage, with muscles between its deep surface and the chest wall. Its broad surfaces anchor shoulder muscles, and its lateral socket meets the humeral head.
Reference facts
- Bone type
- A flat, roughly triangular bone
- Key landmarks
- Glenoid cavity; coracoid and acromion; posterior spine with supraspinous and infraspinous fossae; deep subscapular fossa; superior, medial and lateral borders; inferior angle
- Articulations
- Humerus at the glenohumeral joint; clavicle at the acromioclavicular joint. Its movement over the chest wall is not a direct bone-to-bone rib articulation
Clinical correlation
A scapular fracture after major trauma can occur alongside rib fractures, lung injury or spinal injury. Assessment therefore includes the surrounding chest and other injuries, rather than focusing only on the shoulder blade.
Frequently asked questions
What type of bone is the scapula?
A flat, roughly triangular bone.
What does the scapula articulate with?
Humerus at the glenohumeral joint; clavicle at the acromioclavicular joint. Its movement over the chest wall is not a direct bone-to-bone rib articulation.
What are the key landmarks of the scapula?
Glenoid cavity; coracoid and acromion; posterior spine with supraspinous and infraspinous fossae; deep subscapular fossa; superior, medial and lateral borders; inferior angle.