The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and their tendons that surround the shoulder joint. These muscles are crucial for shoulder stability and help to rotate and lift the arm. There are four muscles that make up the rotator cuff:
- Supraspinatus: This muscle is located at the top of the shoulder. Its main job is to lift the arm and keep it stable when doing overhead activities.
- Infraspinatus: Found at the back of the shoulder, this muscle primarily helps to rotate the arm outward.
- Teres Minor: This is a small muscle next to the infraspinatus. It also assists in rotating the arm outward and adds to overall shoulder stability.
- Subscapularis: This muscle is on the front of the shoulder blade and is the largest of the rotator cuff muscles. It helps to rotate the arm inward.
Together, these muscles work to stabilize the shoulder joint by holding the ball of the upper arm bone firmly within the shallow socket of the shoulder. This stabilization is vital for many activities, from everyday tasks to sports and weightlifting. Injuries to the rotator cuff can occur from acute incidents or through wear and tear over time. Common symptoms of a rotator cuff injury include pain and weakness in the shoulder, especially when reaching overhead or behind the back. Maintaining strong and flexible rotator cuff muscles is essential for shoulder health and function, which is why exercises targeting these muscles are often included in fitness and rehabilitation programs.