Rotator cuff muscles

Muscle Action Origin Insertion Innervation
Supraspinatus Abduction Supraspinous fossa of scapula Greater tubercle of humerus Suprascapular nerve C5-6
Infraspinatus Lateral rotation Infraspinous fossa of scapula Greater tubercle of humerus Suprascapular nerve C5-6
Teres minor Lateral rotation Posterolateral surface of scapula Greater tubercle of humerus Axillary nerve
Subscapularis Medial rotation Subscapular fossa Lesser tubercle of humerus Upper and lower subscapular nerves

misc notes

  • lower subscapular nerve also supplies Teres major
  • supraspinatus tendon poor blood supply

special tests

Muscle Test
Supraspinatus Empty Can Test
Infraspinatus External rotation of humerus
Teres minor Hornblower's Test (?!)
"Position the patient with the arm elevated to 90 degrees in the scapular plane and the elbow flexed to 90 degrees. Ask the patient to laterally rotate the arm against resistance. Test is positive if patient has pain or weakness."
Subscapularis Lift-off test