Rotator Cuff Muscles: The Four Components
The rotator cuff comprises four muscles stabilizing the glenohumeral joint. The latissimus dorsi is not part of the rotator cuff.
The Four Rotator Cuff Muscles (SITS)
| Muscle | Origin | Insertion | Primary Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supraspinatus | Supraspinous fossa | Greater tubercle (superior facet) | Abduction (0–15°) |
| Infraspinatus | Infraspinous fossa | Greater tubercle (middle facet) | External rotation |
| Teres minor | Lateral scapular border | Greater tubercle (inferior facet) | External rotation |
| Subscapularis | Subscapular fossa | Lesser tubercle | Internal rotation |
Latissimus Dorsi
Large back muscle; origin: thoracolumbar fascia, iliac crest, lower ribs; insertion: intertubercular groove. Actions: extension, adduction, internal rotation of shoulder. Not a rotator cuff muscle.
Clinical Pearl
Rotator cuff tears most commonly involve supraspinatus (critical zone, hypovascular).
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