Subscapular nerves

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Subscapular nerves are a group of nerves that originate from the brachial plexus, specifically the posterior cord, and supply the subscapularis muscle and the teres major muscle. The term "subscapular" comes from Latin "sub" meaning under and "scapula" referring to the shoulder blade.

Etymology[edit | edit source]

The term "subscapular" is derived from the Latin words "sub" meaning under and "scapula" referring to the shoulder blade. The term "nerve" is derived from the Latin "nervus" meaning sinew or string.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The subscapular nerves consist of two nerves: the upper subscapular nerve and the lower subscapular nerve.

Upper Subscapular Nerve[edit | edit source]

The upper subscapular nerve (also known as the superior subscapular nerve) originates from the C5 and C6 nerve roots of the brachial plexus. It innervates the subscapularis muscle, which is one of the four muscles that make up the rotator cuff.

Lower Subscapular Nerve[edit | edit source]

The lower subscapular nerve (also known as the inferior subscapular nerve) originates from the C5 and C6 nerve roots of the brachial plexus. It innervates both the subscapularis muscle and the teres major muscle.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

Damage to the subscapular nerves can result in weakness or paralysis of the subscapularis and teres major muscles. This can lead to difficulty in internal rotation and adduction of the arm.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

Subscapular nerves Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD