Subcoracoid Bursa, Posterior View

Description

Seen from posterior, the scapula frames the glenohumeral joint with the spine and acromion projecting laterally, while the head of the humerus sits anterolateral to the glenoid cavity and its labrum. Deep to the coracoid process on the anterior scapula, the subcoracoid bursa lies between the subscapularis tendon and the coracoid, positioned medial to the lesser tubercle of the humerus and anterior to the joint capsule. Posterior bony landmarks, including the scapular body against the rib cage, provide orientation for the anteriorly placed bursal sac. Subcoracoid bursitis and subcoracoid impingement often accompany anterior shoulder pain, aggravated by forward flexion, adduction, and internal rotation when the subscapularis tendon and bursal tissues crowd beneath the coracoid. A posterior perspective helps clarify why symptoms can coexist with rotator cuff disease, since the bursa sits directly along the glide plane of subscapularis as it courses to the lesser tubercle, and it may communicate with the glenohumeral joint in some individuals. Small space, big consequences. Educators can pair this view with anterior shoulder plates to teach bursal anatomy, the coracoid as a surgical landmark, and the relationship of the subscapularis to the anterior capsule in gross anatomy and musculoskeletal ultrasound curricula. It also suits orthopedic and sports medicine publications discussing anterior shoulder impingement, subscapularis tendinopathy, and image guided injection targets around the coracoid and lesser tubercle. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.