ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY A  B  C  D  E  F  G  H  I  J  K  L  M  N  O  P  Q  R  S  T  U  V  W  X  Y  Z                    HOME ABOUT CATEGORIES SITE MAP COPYRIGHT ADVERTISE CONTACT entire Web this site rotator cuff Anatomy of the rotator cuff. In this view of the shoulder from behind, the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, and teres minor muscles are visible. Image credit: Carol Teitz, University of Washington A reinforcing structure around the shoulder joint composed of four muscles and their tendons which merge with the fibrous capsule enclosing the joint. These muscles are the: Supraspinatus muscle, which abducts the arm Infraspinatus muscle, which laterally rotates the arm Teres minor muscle, which also laterally rotates the arm Subscapularis muscle, which medially rotates the humerus Damage to the rotator cuff The rotator cuff may be torn as the result of a fall or repetitive "wear and tear" (caused, for example, by repeated throwing in some sports). A partial tear may cause painful arc syndrome (pain when the arm is lifted in a certain arc away from the body). A complete tear seriously limits the ability to raise the arm and in cases of severe disability, may require surgical repair. Related category    • ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY Also on this site: Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living Encyclopedia of History Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site) BACK TO TOP