The supraspinatus muscle is located on the back of the shoulder.
Understanding the Supraspinatus Muscle's Location
The supraspinatus is one of four muscles that make up the rotator cuff. This group of muscles plays a crucial role in shoulder stability and movement. Specifically, the supraspinatus sits:
- Superiorly: Above the spine of the scapula (shoulder blade). This is why it's called "supra"spinatus – "supra" meaning above.
- Posteriorly: On the back of the shoulder joint.
- Deep: Underneath the trapezius and deltoid muscles, making it harder to palpate (feel) without medical expertise.
Its precise location contributes to its primary function: initiating abduction (lifting the arm away from the body).
The Rotator Cuff: More Than Just Supraspinatus
It's important to remember that the supraspinatus is part of a larger functional unit: the rotator cuff. This group of four muscles also includes:
- Infraspinatus: Located below the spine of the scapula.
- Subscapularis: Located on the anterior (front) surface of the scapula.
- Teres Minor: Located inferior and lateral to the infraspinatus.
Together, these muscles work synergistically to stabilize the shoulder joint, enabling smooth and controlled arm movements. The rotator cuff muscles cover the head of the humerus (upper arm bone), keeping it securely in its socket.
