What actions are associated with the teres minor muscle?

The teres minor muscle is part of the rotator cuff group and plays a crucial role in the movement and stabilization of the shoulder joint. Its primary actions include lateral rotation and a degree of extension of the humerus. This muscle originates from the lateral border of the scapula and inserts onto the greater tubercle of the humerus.

Lateral rotation is significant because it allows the forearm to rotate outward, which is critical for many upper limb activities, especially in sports or when lifting objects overhead. Additionally, while extension is not the primary action of the teres minor, it can assist in extending the humerus when it is already in the abducted position. The ability of the teres minor to contribute to humeral stabilization is vital for maintaining shoulder joint integrity during dynamic movements.

In contrast, other choices refer to movements or functions that are primarily associated with different muscles, such as those that promote medial rotation and adduction, which are typically functions of muscles like the subscapularis or the latissimus dorsi. Overall, the teres minor is specifically involved in the lateral rotation and supportive stabilization of the shoulder joint, making this option the most accurate.