Suprascapular nerve

Origin and course

The suprascapular nerve (root value C5, C6) originates from the superior trunk of the brachial plexus. It is considered to be one of the preterminal branches or supraclavicular branches of the brachial plexus together with the dorsal scapular nerve, long thoracic nerve, subclavian nerve and accessory phrenic nerve. Note that the cords of the brachial plexus are called the infraclavicular branches of the brachial plexus, while the nerves that branch off from the cords are the terminal branches of the brachial plexus.

From its origin, the suprascapular nerve courses laterally, passing superior to the brachial plexus and through the posterior triangle of neck. It then traverses the scapular notch (inferior to the superior transverse scapular ligament) into the supraspinous region of the scapula. Here, it gives off a branch to the supraspinatus muscle and continues through the greater scapular (spinoglenoid) notch between the root of the spine of the scapula and the glenoid cavity, to reach the infraspinous fossa.

The nerve finally terminates within the infraspinatus muscle, innervating it. To avoid confusion, the path of the suprascapular nerve differs from the suprascapular artery and vein, that course above the superior transverse scapular ligament.

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Branches and innervation

The suprascapular nerve is a mixed nerve. Its main function is to provide motor supply for two of five muscles of the rotator cuff, including:

• Supraspinatus muscle
• Infraspinatus muscle

On its course, the nerve gives off a sensory branch that provides sensory innervation for two joints:

• Glenohumeral (shoulder) joint
• Acromioclavicular joint

Do you want to know more about the organization and function of the most complex nerve plexus in the human body? Check out our study unit about the brachial plexus!