Nerve to Teres Minor

nervus musculi teretis minoris

A branch of the axillary nerve (C5-C6) that separates before the nerve enters the quadrilateral space, innervating the teres minor muscle. It may also supply the posterior inferior glenohumeral joint capsule.

Region: Shoulder

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Isolated teres minor denervation is a recognised cause of posterior shoulder pain and external rotation weakness, particularly in overhead athletes. On MRI, selective teres minor fatty atrophy with intact infraspinatus indicates axillary nerve branch injury rather than suprascapular neuropathy. The nerve to teres minor traverses the quadrilateral space where it may be compressed alongside the posterior circumflex humeral artery.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Quadrilateral Space Syndrome

Compression of the nerve to teres minor and posterior circumflex humeral artery in the quadrilateral space producing posterior shoulder pain and teres minor atrophy in overhead athletes.