Subscapularis

General information

• This section is strictly limited to anatomy, you might be looking for clinical relevant information which is found under the clinical chapters -- muscles section, click here to go to that page

Position

• Deep

Origin

• Fossa subscapularis scapulae

Insertion

• Tuberculum minor humerus

Main function

• Shoulder
  • Medial rotation

Nerve innervation

• Segmental
  • C5-C6
• Peripheral
  • Upper and lower subscapular nerves

Arterial supply

• Circumflex scapular artery
• Dorsal scapular artery
• Suprascapular artery
• Lateral thorocal artery

• Patient position
  • Supine
• Place the patient's hand of the side which is to be tested on the opposite shoulder, while the elbow of the same arm is resting on their stomach
• Have the patient place the opposite hand on the elbow which is resting on the stomach
• In this position, grab the posterior and medial aspect of the shoulder blade on the side to be palpated and pull it laterally so that the scapula is protracted
• Use your other hand to palpate between the scapula and the patient's ribs and press towards the anterior surface of the scapula while you feel for subscapularis
• To further distinguish the subscapularis
  • Ask the patient to press the hand down towards the shoulder, so that they are performing a medial rotation
    • Feel for the contraction in the muscle