The critical and capable community of muscles in the shoulder joint refers to a group of muscles called the rotator cuff group of muscles.
The rotator cuff is a group of muscles that includes the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis (SITS). These muscles originate from the scapula bone of the upper back and make their insertions on the humerus bone of the arm (the subscapularis attaches to the lesser tubercle of the humerus, and the rest all to the greater tubercle of the humerus). Their origin and insertion form a cuff-like structure; hence, the name “rotator cuff” is given.
These muscles stabilize the whole shoulder joint and provide ranges and rotation of the arm. The main function of the supraspinatus is the initial 15-20 degrees of abduction/lifting the arm. The infraspinatus has the function of externally rotating the arm. Teres minor has the function of stabilizing the back of the shoulder joint and also assisting in the external rotation movement. The subscapularis is the largest and strongest muscle responsible for internal rotation of the shoulder joint.
They are considered critical because if any of the muscles are affected, it will limit the range of the whole shoulder joint. Like in cases of rotator cuff tear or tendinitis cases.
They are also considered capable because these muscles make the whole shoulder joint very mobile as well as quite stable enough to maintain the whole joint alignment.
What do you think about this group of muscles? What are your thoughts about this beautiful arrangement of bodies?
MBH/PS