What is the primary action of the subscapularis muscle?

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Multiple Choice

What is the primary action of the subscapularis muscle?

Explanation:
Subscapularis sits on the anterior surface of the scapula and inserts onto the lesser tubercle of the humerus. When it contracts, its pull drives the humerus inward, producing medial (internal) rotation of the shoulder. This internal rotation is its defining action among the rotator cuff muscles. It also helps stabilize the humeral head in the glenoid by compressing the head during motion. Lateral rotation is accomplished mainly by the infraspinatus and teres minor, while abduction and flexion involve other muscles (supraspinatus and deltoid for abduction; other flexors for flexion). Thus, medial rotation is the best answer.

Subscapularis sits on the anterior surface of the scapula and inserts onto the lesser tubercle of the humerus. When it contracts, its pull drives the humerus inward, producing medial (internal) rotation of the shoulder. This internal rotation is its defining action among the rotator cuff muscles. It also helps stabilize the humeral head in the glenoid by compressing the head during motion. Lateral rotation is accomplished mainly by the infraspinatus and teres minor, while abduction and flexion involve other muscles (supraspinatus and deltoid for abduction; other flexors for flexion). Thus, medial rotation is the best answer.

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