The human body is inherently unique. Everything in it is thought out to the smallest detail. Each muscle, each cell performs its specific work. And only thanks to this, a person can fully exist. Now I want to talk about what the subscapularis muscle is and what its main function is.
Definition of concepts
First, you need to understand the basic terminology. So, what is the subscapularis muscle? According to the medical dictionary, in Latin the name of this part of the human body sounds like m. subscapularis. It belongs to the muscle group of the shoulder girdle. It originates from the anterior surface of the scapula, which is also called the costal. It is attached to a tubercle located on the humerus.
Main function
Why is the subscapularis needed? Its functions are very simple. However, without their fulfillment, a person will not be able to fully live and perform his daily work. So she:
- brings the shoulder to the human body;
- helps the shoulder turn inward.
However, its main task is to help the shoulder joint,stabilizing its work during shoulder movements. It is indispensable for the proper functioning of the entire shoulder girdle.
Appearance
The subscapularis muscle has a triangular shape, it is flat. Consists of multiple bundles. It is important to note that there are special layers between these bundles, which makes this muscle very unique and unlike others. It also has two layers:
- Deep. It starts from the costal surface of the scapula. However, it is slightly out of shape with her, as it appears to be slightly misaligned.
- Surface. It is located from the fascia of the subscapular type, where it is securely fastened to the edges of the subscapular fossa.
Probing (palpation)
In addition to the subscapularis, the so-called rotator ring includes three more: small round, cavitary and supraspinatus. It is because of this that the subscapularis muscle is palpated very, very difficult. Not only is it part of a large complex, it is also located on the front of the shoulder blade. That is, it fits tightly to the chest. Only a specialist can palpate it. To do this, you will have to perform a number of actions:
- The patient should lie either on the stomach or on the back.
- The patient's arm is moved as far as possible.
- You need to “pass” with your fingers under the back wall of the armpit, while feeling for the edge of the shoulder blade.
- Moving medially, you can feel the subscapularis muscle. At the same time, it must be pressed against the front wall of the shoulder blade.
Doctors say that the muscle is not always possiblediscover. Much depends on the ability of the patient's scapula to move relative to the chest.
About pain
Injury to the subscapularis is always associated with discomfort. So, a person can feel discomfort not only in the place where it is located. Pain can be concentrated in the area of the muscle, it can spread to the entire shoulder blade. But it also happens that uncomfortable sensations appear even in the wrist area. It is in this place that they are encircling in nature. Also, discomfort can be in the case of an attempt to abduct the shoulder to the side or move it outward. Pain can result from the most common causes:
- heavy load on the shoulder when turning inward, especially if the load is regular. This problem, for example, often occurs in freestyle swimmers;
- shoulder injuries of various nature can also be the cause.
About problems
What problems can arise when it comes to this part of the human body? The first problem is tendopathy of the subscapularis muscle. These are some degenerative changes that occur as a result of insufficient blood supply to the muscles of the shoulder girdle. The cause of tendopathies can also be hereditary pathologies of the connective tissue. It should be noted that, for example, with tendinopathy of the subscapularis muscle, pain in a person intensifies at the moments of bringing a spoon to his mouth, combing his hair, and moving his hand behind his back. It should be noted that ifthe patient often has similar problems regarding the muscles of the shoulder girdle, then he can be diagnosed with "shoulder-shoulder periarthritis". Also, this problem can occur in case of permanent injury to the tendons.
About breakups
Rupture of the subscapularis muscle does not happen so often. However, tendopathies that occur as precursors of this problem are most often the cause. Subscapularis tendon rupture symptoms:
- a sharp increase in pain;
- inability to freely move the arm.
It is also important to note that tears can be either partial or complete, when the tendon is completely detached from the attachment. Of course, the intensity of pain also depends on this. With partial ruptures, the movement of the arm may still be preserved (although it will be accompanied by pain), while with complete ruptures, the arm is completely immobilized.
Diagnosis
Only a doctor can diagnose a problem. This will require an examination of the patient and the collection of anamnesis. Also, the patient will be sent for x-rays. To clarify the extent of damage, you will have to undergo an ultrasound examination or MRI.
Treatment
How is the subscapularis treated? Most often it is conservative. The main thing with a partial rupture of the tendons is to relieve pain. For this, painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs can be prescribed. Also, the sore spot is fixed tightbandage. A splint may be used for tendon rupture. When the pain subsides and the shoulder returns to normal, doctors prescribe special exercises to develop the joint.
Sometimes surgery is required. This is most often necessary in the event of a complete rupture of the tendons, or if conservative treatment has not given the desired results.
