Supraspinatus

The Supraspinatus muscle is one of the four muscles which make up the rotator cuff. Its main function is to stabilise the upper arm by holding the head of the humerus in position. It is important in throwing motions to control any forward motion of the head of humerus.

Origin

• Supraspinous fossa

Insertion

• Greater tuberosity of the humerus

Actions

• Abduction
  
  
• Stabilisation of the humerus

Innervation

• Suprascapular nerve

Daily uses

• Holding shopping bags away from the body

Example strengthening exercises

• Lateral raise
  
  
• Shoulder external rotation

Example stretches

• Supraspinatus stretch
  
  
• Posterior shoulder stretch
  
  
• Posterior shoulder stretch II

Related injuries

• Inflammation of the supraspinatus tendon
  
  
• Rotator cuff injuries
  
  
• Impingement syndrome

Related muscles

• Infraspinatus
  
  
• Subscapularis
  
  
• Teres minor