Which muscles are crucial in preventing excessive anterior translation of the humeral head in the rotator cuff?

• A. Supraspinatus and Subscapularis
• B. Teres Minor and Infraspinatus
• C. Deltoid and Teres Major
• D. Infraspinatus and Supraspinatus

Answer: (B)

The muscles that play a crucial role in preventing excessive anterior translation of the humeral head in the context of the rotator cuff are the teres minor and infraspinatus. Both of these muscles are part of the rotator cuff group and are primarily responsible for external rotation and stabilization of the shoulder joint.

The infraspinatus is particularly effective in externally rotating the humerus and also helps depress the humeral head during arm elevation, which directly contributes to maintaining proper alignment and preventing anterior translation. Similarly, the teres minor assists with this stabilization and external rotation of the humerus. Together, these muscles help ensure that during shoulder movements, the head of the humerus remains centered within the glenoid cavity, reducing the risk of dislocation or other shoulder instability caused by anterior translation.

Options involving the supraspinatus and subscapularis or deltoid and teres major do not provide the same degree of protection against anterior translation. The supraspinatus, while it assists in shoulder abduction and works to stabilize the shoulder, is not specifically protective against anterior translation. The subscapularis primarily serves to medially rotate the humerus and does not have a direct role in countering anterior translation. Similarly, the