Not an abductor of shoulder ?
## **Core Concept**
The question tests knowledge of the muscles involved in shoulder movement, specifically abduction. Shoulder abduction is primarily facilitated by muscles that act to move the arm away from the body in the coronal plane.
## **Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The muscles primarily responsible for shoulder abduction are the **supraspinatus** and **deltoid**. The supraspinatus initiates abduction from 0 to 15 degrees, and the deltoid continues it from 15 to 90 degrees. The correct answer, **Pectoralis major**, does not primarily function as an abductor of the shoulder. Instead, it acts as an adductor, flexor, and medial rotator of the arm.
## **Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
- **Option A: Supraspinatus** is incorrect because it is indeed an abductor of the shoulder, specifically initiating the abduction movement.
- **Option B: Deltoid** is incorrect because it is also a primary abductor of the shoulder, continuing the movement started by the supraspinatus.
- **Option C: Teres minor** is incorrect as it assists in adduction and lateral rotation of the arm but also works with the deltoid in shoulder abduction to a lesser extent.
## **Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember is the **rotator cuff** muscles, which include the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis. These muscles are crucial for shoulder stability and movement. The supraspinatus is particularly notable for its role in initiating shoulder abduction.
## **Correct Answer:** . Pectoralis major