Coracobrachialis at Shoulder

musculus coracobrachialis pars scapularis

The coracobrachialis connects the coracoid to the humeral shaft, serving as the coracoid muscle that links the scapula to the arm. The musculocutaneous nerve pierces the coracobrachialis, making it the muscle used to identify this nerve.

Nerve: Musculocutaneous nerve (C6, C7) — the nerve pierces… Blood Supply: Brachial artery — muscular branches Region: Shoulder

Anatomical Data

Origin, Insertion & Supply

Origin	Coracoid process of the scapula — tip
Insertion	Medial shaft of the humerus — middle third
Nerve Supply	Musculocutaneous nerve (C6, C7) — the nerve pierces the muscle
Blood Supply	Brachial artery — muscular branches

Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Actions	Flexes the shoulder; Adducts the humerus; Stabilises the glenohumeral joint against inferior subluxation

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The musculocutaneous nerve piercing the coracobrachialis is the surgical landmark for nerve identification in the axilla. Coracoid impingement syndrome (subcoracoid impingement) involves the coracobrachialis tendon among the structures compressed between the coracoid and the subscapularis.

Palpation

Palpated as the medial axillary cord during resisted shoulder flexion and adduction.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Coracobrachialis as Musculocutaneous Nerve Landmark

Musculocutaneous nerve piercing the coracobrachialis used for nerve identification in axillary approach surgery and brachial plexus exploration.