Rotator cuff tendons

A group of tendons that play a critical role in shoulder stability and movement.

The rotator cuff consists of four tendons that connect the shoulder muscles to the humerus, the upper arm bone. These tendons are associated with a group of muscles known as the rotator cuff muscles, which work together to stabilize the shoulder joint and allow for a wide range of arm movements.

Terminologia Anatomica

cuff musculi rotatorii

System

Musculoskeletal system

Function

The primary function of the rotator cuff tendons is to provide stability to the shoulder joint, allowing it to perform complex movements while maintaining its position. They enable the arm to rotate in various directions and assist in lifting and reaching motions. The rotator cuff is essential for overhead activity, helping to prevent dislocations and injuries by keeping the head of the humerus securely nestled in the shallow socket of the shoulder blade (scapula). These tendons facilitate not only voluntary movements, such as throwing or lifting, but also are crucial for maintaining posture and balance during dynamic activities. By coordinating with other muscles in the shoulder and arm, the rotator cuff helps to achieve a fluid and controlled range of motion, emphasizing its importance in everyday actions and athletic performance.

Location

The rotator cuff tendons are located in the upper shoulder region, surrounding the shoulder joint. Specifically, they connect the rotator cuff muscles to the proximal humerus. The tendons are situated beneath the acromion, a bony projection on the scapula, and they pass over the shoulder joint. The arrangement of these tendons allows them to encompass the head of the humerus, providing a supportive framework that maintains the stability of the shoulder while enabling a versatility of movement. Each tendon corresponds to a specific muscle of the rotator cuff: the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis, collectively forming a critical functional component of the shoulder complex.

Did You Know?

The rotator cuff is one of the most commonly injured parts of the body, particularly among athletes and individuals who engage in repetitive overhead activities.
The supraspinatus tendon, one of the four tendons, is the most frequently injured tendon in rotator cuff tears.
The rotator cuff has a crucial role not only in movement but also in providing proprioceptive feedback, which helps the brain understand the positioning and motion of the arm and shoulder.