The superior angle is the upper inner corner of the shoulder blade, where its superior and medial borders meet, usually at about the level of the second thoracic vertebra. The levator scapulae muscle inserts on and just below it. It lies deep to the trapezius and is a common site of tenderness in people with neck and shoulder tension.
| Articulations |
|
|---|---|
| Landmarks |
|
| Ossification | Formed from the primary ossification centre of the scapular body, which appears around the eighth fetal week. |
The superomedial angle is the most common site of symptoms in snapping scapula syndrome, where grinding is felt as the scapula moves over the ribs, sometimes from a bursa or a hooked angle; partial bony resection may be done for persistent cases. Tenderness at the superior angle is common in levator scapulae strain and neck pain from poor posture. Injection of the bursa beneath the superomedial angle is used both to diagnose and to treat scapulothoracic bursitis.
Stand behind the person and follow the medial border of the scapula upward to its upper corner, near the base of the neck at about the T2 level. It lies deep to upper trapezius, so press firmly; asking the person to shrug or to place the hand behind the back can make it easier to feel. Levator scapulae attaches here and it is often tender.
Painful grinding or clunking at the superomedial angle during shoulder movement, from friction against the chest wall or an inflamed scapulothoracic bursa.
Overload of the levator scapulae near its insertion at the superior angle, causing pain and tightness at the base of the neck.
This website uses cookies to enhance your experience. Some are essential for site functionality, while others help us analyze and improve your usage experience. Please review your options and make your choice.
If you are under 16 years old, please ensure that you have received consent from your parent or guardian for any non-essential cookies.
Your privacy is important to us. You can adjust your cookie settings at any time. For more information about how we use data, please read our privacy policy. You may change your preferences at any time by clicking on the settings button below.
Note that if you choose to disable some types of cookies, it may impact your experience of the site and the services we are able to offer.
Some required resources have been blocked, which can affect third-party services and may cause the site to not function properly.
This website uses cookies to enhance your browsing experience and ensure the site functions properly. By continuing to use this site, you acknowledge and accept our use of cookies.
