Greater tubercle

The greater tubercle of the humerus is situated lateral to the head of the humerus and posterolateral to the lesser tubercle.

Its upper surface is rounded and marked by three flat impressions.

The lateral surface of the greater tubercle is convex, rough, and continuous with the lateral surface of the body.

Between the greater tubercle and the lesser tubercle is the bicipital groove (intertubercular sulcus).

All three of the muscles that attach to the greater tubercle are part of the rotator cuff, a muscle group that stabilizes the shoulder joint. The fourth muscle of the rotator cuff (the subscapularis) does not attach to the greater tubercle, but instead attaches to the lesser tubercle.