The subcoracoid bursa lies between the subscapularis tendon and the coracoid process. It usually does not communicate with the glenohumeral joint, unlike the subscapular recess, but may communicate with the subacromial-subdeltoid bursa. It can become inflamed in subcoracoid impingement syndrome, compression of the subscapularis tendon in the coracohumeral space; a narrowed coracohumeral distance on MRI (often quoted as less than about 6 mm) combined with bursal fluid and subscapularis tendon signal change supports the diagnosis.
| Location | Between the subscapularis tendon and the coracoid process |
|---|---|
| Nearby |
|
Reduces friction between the subscapularis and the coracoid process during shoulder movement
Subcoracoid impingement produces anterior shoulder pain that worsens with forward flexion, adduction and internal rotation, reproduced by the coracoid impingement test. It must be distinguished from subacromial impingement (lateral pain, painful arc) by clinical examination and confirmed by MRI showing the narrow coracohumeral space and bursal fluid. Ultrasound-guided injection into the bursa is both diagnostic and therapeutic. Arthroscopic coracoplasty (resection of the lateral coracoid tip) decompresses the space in refractory cases.
Subscapularis-coracoid impingement producing anterior shoulder pain managed with physiotherapy and injection, occasionally requiring coracoplasty.
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