Musculus teres minor, commonly known as the teres minor muscle, is a small, narrow, and elongated muscle located in the rotator cuff of the shoulder joint. Its name derives from the Latin term "teres," meaning "long" or "rounded," and "minor," indicating its smaller size in comparison to the neighboring muscle, the teres major.
The teres minor muscle originates from the lateral border of the scapula, specifically the upper two-thirds of the axillary border. From its origin, the muscle courses laterally and superiorly as a thin tendon that attaches to the greater tubercle of the humerus, one of the bony projections of the upper arm bone.
As part of the rotator cuff, the primary function of the teres minor muscle is to assist in the stabilization and movement of the shoulder joint. It works in conjunction with the other rotator cuff muscles to facilitate various movements, particularly external rotation of the arm. Additionally, the teres minor muscle aids in retracting and depressing the scapula, which allows for a greater range of motion.
Injuries or strains to the teres minor muscle can occur due to overuse, trauma, or repetitive motion, leading to symptoms such as shoulder pain, weakness, and restricted movement. Rehabilitation and physical therapy exercises are often prescribed to strengthen and restore function to the teres minor muscle, aiding in a full recovery.
