Hawaii Massage License Practice Exam

Which muscle is involved in the movement of the rotator cuff?

1. Deltoid

2. Supraspinatus

3. Pectoralis major

4. Latissimus dorsi

The correct answer is: Supraspinatus

The supraspinatus muscle plays a crucial role in the movement of the rotator cuff, primarily because it is one of the four main muscles that make up the rotator cuff group. This group is essential for stabilizing the shoulder joint and facilitating a wide range of arm movements. The supraspinatus specifically is responsible for initiating abduction of the arm, which is lifting the arm away from the body. It is located above the spine of the scapula and helps to stabilize the head of the humerus in the glenoid cavity during shoulder movements. Because of its specific function in shoulder mechanics and stabilization, the supraspinatus is vital for normal shoulder function, especially in activities that require overhead movements. While the deltoid, pectoralis major, and latissimus dorsi muscles are indeed important for shoulder movement, they are not part of the rotator cuff. The deltoid primarily works to lift the arm after the initial movement has been started by the supraspinatus, and the pectoralis major and latissimus dorsi contribute to other actions, such as flexion, adduction, and extension, rather than the stabilization role that the rotator cuff muscles, particularly the supraspinatus