spine of scapula (examination)
Last reviewed 01/2018
The spine of the scapula is best examined bilaterally from behind. Locate the acromion at the lateral end of the shoulder. Follow its contour dorsally and medially as it bends acutely to become the spine. The spine arches inferomedially across the superior third of the dorsal scapula surface. At its medial limit it is continuous with a bony triangle on the vertebral border of the bone. Usually, this is located at the level of the T3 vertebral spinous process.