The subscapularis bursa is a fluid-lined space between the subscapularis tendon and the front of the shoulder joint. Unlike many bursae, it commonly connects with the joint through an opening in the capsule. When described as part of that joint space, it is often called the subscapular recess.

Location

At the front of the glenohumeral joint
Deep to the upper subscapularis tendon
Near the base of the coracoid process
Commonly continuous with the joint cavity through the anterior capsule

Function

It allows the subscapularis tendon to glide more easily over the capsule and nearby bone as the arm rotates.

Why It Matters on Imaging

Because the bursa often communicates with the joint, fluid inside it may reflect fluid from the shoulder joint rather than isolated bursitis. Its shape and size can also change with arm position.

That means a visible subscapular recess does not diagnose a subscapularis injury. Imaging findings need to be considered alongside the tendon, capsule, labrum, symptoms and physical examination.

Subscapularis — the rotator cuff tendon that lies over the bursa
Glenohumeral joint capsule — the capsule through which the recess commonly communicates
Subacromial bursa — a separate bursa above the rotator cuff

References

Kennedy MS, Nicholson HD, Woodley SJ. “The morphology of the subacromial and related shoulder bursae: an anatomical and histological study.” Journal of Anatomy. 2022. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9005683/
StatPearls. “Anatomy, Shoulder and Upper Limb, Shoulder.” StatPearls Publishing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK536933/

Subscapularis Bursa