Which shoulder muscle is NOT part of the rotator cuff?

The deltoid muscle is not considered part of the rotator cuff, which is comprised of four specific muscles: supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis. These rotator cuff muscles work together to stabilize the shoulder joint, allowing for a wide range of motion while helping to prevent dislocations and injuries during various arm movements.

The deltoid, while it is a crucial muscle for shoulder movement, primarily functions to lift the arm away from the body (abduction) and is located in the outer shoulder region, distinct from the rotator cuff muscles that surround the shoulder joint. Understanding the roles and locations of these muscles is essential for anyone working in orthotic fitting and rehabilitation, as it aids in developing effective treatment plans for shoulder injuries and conditions.