Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Definition
Inferior rotation is a movement occurring at the shoulder joint where the arm bone (humerus) rotates downward, bringing the dorsal surface of the hand anteriorly. This action is opposite to superior rotation, which moves the arm bone upward.
The ball and socket joint between the head of the humerus and the glenoid fossa of the scapula, allowing for a wide range of shoulder movements including inferior rotation.
Rotator Cuff: A group of muscles and their tendons that act to stabilize the shoulder and enable various movements including inferior rotation