Musculus teres major is a Latin term commonly used in anatomy to describe a specific muscle in the human body. Its pronunciation is often challenging for students and healthcare professionals alike. Using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), we can break down the pronunciation of this term as /mʌskjʊləs tɪərɪs meɪdʒər/. The stress falls on the second syllables of both words. The term refers to a muscle located in the upper limb that plays a crucial role in shoulder abduction and extension movements.
The musculus teres major, commonly known as the teres major muscle, is a thick, long, and triangular-shaped muscle found in the upper extremity of the human body. It is situated on the posterior or back side of the shoulder joint, specifically connecting the scapula (shoulder blade) to the humerus (upper arm bone). The teres major muscle is commonly associated with the latissimus dorsi muscle, as they originate from a similar area on the scapula and share some functions.
Originating from the inferior angle of the scapula, the teres major muscle inserts onto the medial or inner aspect of the humerus bone, just below the attachment site of the latissimus dorsi muscle. It forms part of the axillary or armpit region and plays a crucial role in various movements of the shoulder joint and upper limb.
Functionally, the teres major muscle assists in movements such as adduction, medial or internal rotation, and extension of the arm at the shoulder joint. It also contributes to the stabilization of the shoulder during certain movements. The teres major muscle receives innervation from the lower subscapular nerve, which arises from the posterior cord of the brachial plexus, a complex network of nerves that supply the upper limbs.
In summary, the musculus teres major is an essential muscle located on the posterior side of the shoulder joint. It aids in various movements of the arm and plays a role in stabilizing the shoulder.
Origin, lower third of dorsal aspect of axillary border of scapula; insertion, inner border of bicipital groove of humerus; nerve supply, lower subscapular from 5th and 6th cervical; action, adducts and extends arm and rotates it inward.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.