Muscle
Supraspinatus
Helps lift the arm and center the shoulder joint
High-yield
Supraspinatus contributes early in abduction and continues working as the arm rises. Its role is not limited to the first 15 degrees.
Overview
This cuff muscle begins above the scapular spine. Its tendon passes beneath the acromion to reach the upper greater tubercle, where its pull helps abduct the arm and stabilize the humeral head.
Learning this group? Read The rotator cuff muscles, explained.
Reference facts
- Origin
- Supraspinous fossa above the scapular spine
- Insertion
- Superior facet of the humerus's greater tubercle
- Action
- Assists arm abduction throughout its range and stabilizes the humeral head
- Innervation
- Suprascapular nerve, mainly C5–C6
- Blood supply
- Mainly the suprascapular artery, with scapular arterial connections
Mnemonic
For the cuff, group the names as two spinatus muscles, teres minor and subscapularis: S–I–T–S.
Clinical correlation
Supraspinatus tendon injury may cause pain or weakness when the arm is raised. An empty-can test can contribute to the assessment, but pain or weakness during it is not by itself proof of a tear.
Frequently asked questions
What does the supraspinatus do?
The supraspinatus assists arm abduction throughout its range and stabilizes the humeral head.
What nerve innervates the supraspinatus?
The supraspinatus is innervated by the suprascapular nerve, mainly C5–C6.
Where does the supraspinatus attach?
Origin: Supraspinous fossa above the scapular spine. Insertion: Superior facet of the humerus's greater tubercle.
What is the blood supply of the supraspinatus?
Mainly the suprascapular artery, with scapular arterial connections.