The four rotator cuff muscles are: supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis. These muscles are crucial for shoulder stability and movement.
These muscles work together to control the motion of the shoulder joint and stabilize the humerus in the glenoid fossa (shoulder socket). Damage or injury to any of these muscles can result in pain, weakness, and limited range of motion in the shoulder.
Here's a brief overview of each muscle:
- Supraspinatus: Primarily responsible for initiating shoulder abduction (lifting the arm away from the body).
- Infraspinatus: Primarily responsible for external rotation of the shoulder.
- Teres Minor: Also contributes to external rotation of the shoulder, and assists with adduction and extension.
- Subscapularis: Primarily responsible for internal rotation of the shoulder.
