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Rotator cuff

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The rotator cuff is a group of four tendons and their related muscles that cover the shoulder joint. The rotator cuff helps keep the shoulder stable and allows the arm to rotate or move up, down, in, and out.

Tendons are tough, ropelike fibers that connect muscles to bones. The rotator cuff muscles are called the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, subscapularis, and teres minor. Tendons connect the rotator cuff muscles, which start at the shoulder blade (scapula), to the upper arm bone (humerus).

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.