DR HQ: Anatomy 101—Leftover questions

I’ve gotten a few questions via email regarding topics and definitions that still need clarification. So this edition of Anatomy 101 will answer some of those questions.

Q: Is the trapezius muscle part of the rotator cuff?
A: The four muscles that make up the rotator cuff are the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, subscapularis and teres minor. So, no, it is not part of the rotator cuff. The trapezius is muscle a triangular muscle that covers the thorax, neck and shoulder. This muscle’s outer edge connects over the shoulder region. While it is not as important as the rotator cuff, it still is very important part of the throwing motion. For Clay Buchholz earlier this season, his injury appeared to start with tightness in the trapezius, thus...

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