National Associaltion of Myofascial Trigger Point Therapists - Symptom Checker
Infraspinatus
This is the technical name of the muscle being described. This name may be used to find additional information in any medical resource. Infraspinatus
A group of muscles generally denotes muscles of the same function and may share a common attachment point. Rotator Cuff
Muscle function, in this definition, is what the muscle could do if it was to contract by itself with the body in anatomical position. This is a general definition of muscle function. For more information on how muscles work together on the body please refer to a physiology or functional anatomy text.

All of the muscles of the rotator cuff function to stabilize the glenohumeral (g/h) joint, which is another name for the shoulder.  The infraspinatus also laterally rotates the arm at the shoulder.

A description of where a Myofascial Trigger Point may produce pain in the body. This area is generally located away from the trigger point.

Pain from the infraspinatus is felt as intensely deep in the front of the shoulder.  The pain may then project down the anterolateral (front/outside) aspect of the arm to the lateral forearm, and to the radial (thumb side) aspect of the hand.
A description of the symptoms a person may experience with trigger points in the muscle being described.

Aside from pain in the above referenced areas, TrPs in the infraspinatus muscle will cause a person to comment on the
restriction that the muscle has caused.  They will most likely
complain of not being able to reach into a back pants pocket or unhook a brassier.  A dress may not be able to be zipped or it will be too painful to get an affected arm into a coat sleeve.
   

 A list of possible diseases that fit the information derived from examination of a patient.

  1. Cervical arthritis or spurs with nerve root irritation.
  2. C5-C6 radiculopathy.
  3. Brachial plexus injuries.
  4. Subdeltoid bursitis.
  5. Rotator cuff tears.
  6. Entrapment of the suprascapular nerve.

A list of activities or positions that may either CAUSE a trigger point to manifest or PROLONG a pain condition respectively.

  1. Carrying heavy objects, such as a suitcase, briefcase, or package with the arm hanging down at the side.
  2. Walking a strong pulling dog.
  3. Repeated or moderately prolonged elevation of the arms.

A corrective action is usually a modification of daily routine which will reduce stress on the affected muscle(s) in a person with myofascial trigger points.

  1. Avoid carrying heavy objects, such as a suitcase or briefcase, with the arm hanging down by the side.
  2. Avoid holding the hands up in the air for long periods of time – take time to relax the muscles and allow the blood to replenish the supply.
  3. Self treatment may also be applied easily to this muscle.
 

References : 
Simons DG, Travell JG, Simons LS, Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual, vol 1, 2nd Ed. Baltimore: Williams and Wilkins, 1999.

Travell JG, Simons DG, Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction, vol 2. Baltimore: Williams & Wilkins, 1992.

This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease.  A proper diagnosis should be sought from a licensed health care provider.