Muscle
Supraspinatus
Rotator cuff - initiates abduction
High-yield
Initiates the first 15° of abduction; most commonly torn/impinged rotator cuff muscle. Suprascapular nerve.
Overview
The most superior rotator cuff muscle, running under the acromion to initiate abduction of the arm.
Learning this group? Read The rotator cuff muscles, explained.
Reference facts
- Origin
- Supraspinous fossa of the scapula
- Insertion
- Superior facet of the greater tubercle of the humerus
- Action
- Initiates abduction of the arm (first ~15°); stabilises the glenohumeral joint
- Innervation
- Suprascapular nerve (C5, C6)
- Blood supply
- Suprascapular artery
Clinical correlation
Painful arc and a positive empty-can test suggest supraspinatus pathology.
Frequently asked questions
What does the supraspinatus do?
The supraspinatus initiates abduction of the arm (first ~15°); stabilises the glenohumeral joint.
What nerve innervates the supraspinatus?
The supraspinatus is innervated by the suprascapular nerve (C5, C6).
Where does the supraspinatus attach?
The supraspinatus originates from the supraspinous fossa of the scapula and inserts on the superior facet of the greater tubercle of the humerus.
What is the blood supply of the supraspinatus?
The supraspinatus is supplied by the suprascapular artery.