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Anatomy · Upper limb
Rotator Cuff and Shoulder Muscles
10 terms · by ineedtostudy · updated 4 hours ago
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Terms in this set
Supraspinatus
Abducts the arm for the first 15 degrees. Runs under the acromion, which is why it is the tendon most often impinged and torn.
Infraspinatus
Laterally rotates the arm. Sits below the spine of the scapula.
Teres minor
Laterally rotates and adducts. The only rotator cuff muscle innervated by the axillary nerve.
Subscapularis
Medially rotates the arm. The only rotator cuff muscle on the anterior surface of the scapula.
Deltoid
Abducts the arm beyond 15 degrees. Axillary nerve — at risk in a surgical neck humerus fracture.
Teres major
Adducts and medially rotates. Not part of the rotator cuff despite the name and position.
Latissimus dorsi
Extends, adducts and medially rotates the humerus. Thoracodorsal nerve.
Trapezius
Elevates, retracts and rotates the scapula. Spinal accessory nerve (CN XI).
Serratus anterior
Protracts the scapula and holds it against the chest wall. Long thoracic nerve injury causes winged scapula.
Rhomboid major and minor
Retract and elevate the scapula. Dorsal scapular nerve.