Nerve
Suprascapular nerve
Nerve linking two posterior rotator-cuff muscles
High-yield
At the suprascapular notch it normally passes beneath the superior transverse scapular ligament. Its two muscle targets help abduct the arm, rotate it outward and stabilize the humeral head.
Overview
This upper-trunk branch passes to the back of the scapula. It reaches supraspinatus first, then travels around the scapular spine to infraspinatus. It also carries sensory information from shoulder joint structures.
Learning this group? Read How to learn the brachial plexus and The rotator cuff muscles, explained.
Reference facts
- Root value
- Usually C5-C6 through the upper trunk; C4 contributions and other variants occur
- Course
- Through the suprascapular notch beneath its transverse ligament, into the supraspinous fossa, then through the spinoglenoid region to the infraspinous fossa
- Motor
- Supraspinatus and infraspinatus muscles
- Sensory
- Articular branches to the glenohumeral and acromioclavicular regions; no usual defined skin patch
Clinical correlation
A lesion near the suprascapular notch may affect both muscles. A more distal lesion near the spinoglenoid notch can spare supraspinatus and weaken infraspinatus, making the pattern of weakness useful for localization.
Frequently asked questions
What are the roots of the suprascapular nerve?
Usually C5-C6 through the upper trunk; C4 contributions and other variants occur.
What muscles does the suprascapular nerve supply?
The suprascapular nerve supplies the supraspinatus and infraspinatus muscles.
What is the sensory distribution of the suprascapular nerve?
Articular branches to the glenohumeral and acromioclavicular regions; no usual defined skin patch.
What is the course of the suprascapular nerve?
Through the suprascapular notch beneath its transverse ligament, into the supraspinous fossa, then through the spinoglenoid region to the infraspinous fossa.