Teres minor

Definition

The teres minor is a small muscle of the rotator cuff that assists in rotating the arm laterally and stabilizing the shoulder joint. It is located in the upper portion of the arm, just below the shoulder.

Related terms

Rotator Cuff: A group of muscles and tendons surrounding the shoulder joint, keeping the head of your upper arm bone firmly within the shallow socket of the shoulder.

Lateral Rotation:

A movement that involves turning an appendage away from the midline of the body; for example, when you twist your arm outward.

Shoulder Joint:

A ball-and-socket joint that allows for a wide range of motion for the upper limb, including rotation, lifting, and swinging