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Home › Body Atlas › Muscles › Subscapularis Lower Portion Detail
Muscle Shoulder

Subscapularis Lower Portion Detail

musculus subscapularis pars inferior

The lower subscapularis constitutes the bulk of the muscle. Its more horizontal fibres insert on the inferior lesser tuberosity facet and are the component preserved in isolated upper subscapularis tears.

An expanded entry for Subscapularis Lower Portion.

Anatomical Data

Origin, Insertion & Supply

OriginLower half of the subscapular fossa
InsertionLesser tuberosity, inferior facet, blending with anterior capsule
Nerve SupplyLower subscapular nerve (C6, C7)
Blood SupplySubscapular artery
Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Actions
  • Medial rotation
  • Anterior capsular stabilisation

It medially rotates the arm and resists anterior translation of the humeral head, particularly with the arm by the side.

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The lower subscapularis is assessed by the belly-press test and internal rotation lag sign. Complete subscapularis tears involve both upper and lower portions. In total shoulder arthroplasty, tenotomy or lesser tuberosity osteotomy provides joint access through this component.

Palpation

Tested by belly-press and lift-off tests.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Complete Subscapularis Rupture

Full-thickness subscapularis tear involving both upper and lower portions producing gross medial rotation weakness, requiring arthroscopic repair of the complete footprint.

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