Anatomy
Rotator Cuff and Teres Major
The rotator cuff is a group of deep muscles that stabilise the shoulder. Supraspinatus and infraspinatus belong to it; the neighbouring teres major helps pull the arm down and back. It is one of the most common sources of shoulder pain.
- Supraspinatus
- Infraspinatus
- Teres major
Where is it?
Supraspinatus sits above the spine of the shoulder blade and passes under the acromion. Infraspinatus covers the back of the shoulder blade. Their tendons wrap the head of the upper arm bone. Teres major runs from the lower corner of the shoulder blade to the front of the arm bone.
What does it do?
Supraspinatus helps start lifting the arm; infraspinatus rotates the arm outward. Together they keep the head of the arm bone centred during movement. Teres major pulls the arm toward the body and rotates it inward.
Common problems
Each problem has its own detailed page: symptoms, causes, treatment and when to seek care.
How we can help
When to seek care
Book an appointment if pain lasts more than two weeks, wakes you at night or you lose strength lifting the arm. A sudden inability to lift the arm after a fall or effort should be assessed promptly.
Frequently asked questions
Other areas of the body
Educational content: it does not replace an assessment. Your therapist determines the cause of your symptoms in person.