Teres Major Muscle
Origin: Dorsal surface of the lower third of the lateral border of the scapula
Insertion: Medial lip of the bicipital groove of the humerus
Actions: Internal rotation and adduction of the arm at the shoulder
Innervation: Lower subscapular nerve (C5, C6)
Blood Supply: Subscapular and posterior circumflex humeral arteries from the axillary artery
Primary Actions of the Teres Major
1. Internal rotation of the arm at the shoulder
Agonists:
- Subscapularis
- Deltoid (anterior part)
- Latissimus dorsi
- Pectoralis major
Antagonists:
- Infraspinatus
- Teres minor
- Deltoid (posterior part)
2. Adduction of the arm at the shoulder
Agonists:
- Latissimus dorsi
- Pectoralis major
- Triceps brachii (long head)
Antagonist:
- Deltoid (middle part)
- Supraspinatus
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Secondary Actions of the Teres Major
1. Assists with extension of the arm at the shoulder
Agonists:
- Deltoid (posterior part)
- Triceps brachii (long head)
- Latissimus dorsi
- Pectoralis major (sternal head)
Antagonists:
- Deltoid (anterior part)
- Biceps brachii
- Coracobrachialis
- Pectoralis major (clavicular head)
Muscle Pain Information: The teres major muscle contributes to pain in the back of the shoulder that descends into the the back of the upper arm and forearm.
An excellent book for those beginning the study of anatomy. Coloring helps memory retention.
For intermediary anatomy students learning skeletal and muscle structure.
For beginning and intermediary anatomy . Muscle overlays on the human body. Excellent visuals!