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subscapularis muscle
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Detailed anatomical illustration of the human upper arm from the front, showing the superficial muscles, major nerves, and tendons. Key structures like the deltoid, biceps brachii, brachialis, and associated nerves are labeled.
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subscapularis muscle

anatomy
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Detailed anatomical illustration of the human upper arm from the front, showing the superficial muscles, major nerves, and tendons. Key structures like the deltoid, biceps brachii, brachialis, and associated nerves are labeled.
Human muscle system Muscles of the upper arm.

The subscapularis muscle is a deep muscle located on the anterior (front) surface of the scapula, one of the two large bones of the shoulder girdle. It plays a crucial role in shoulder movement, specifically in internal rotation. This action is part of a coordinated effort involving several muscles, including the pectoralis major, latissimus dorsi, deltoid, teres major, and the subscapularis itself.12

Together with the teres minor, supraspinatus, and infraspinatus muscles, the subscapularis forms the rotator cuff. This group of muscles is vital for stabilizing the head of the humerus (the upper arm bone) within the shoulder joint. Injuries to the rotator cuff muscles are common, especially in individuals who frequently perform overhead movements.2

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2 Britannica Sources
  1. scapula
  2. human muscle system - The shoulder

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