Teres Major Tendon

tendo musculi teretis majoris

The teres major tendon inserts on the medial lip of the intertubercular groove (bicipital groove) of the humerus, immediately anterior to the tendon of latissimus dorsi. The two tendons run in parallel through the posterior axilla and have a twist: the teres major fibers that originate inferiorly insert superiorly on the humerus, creating a spiral. The insertion footprint is adjacent to and at times indistinguishable from the latissimus dorsi tendon.

Region: Shoulder

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The teres major and latissimus dorsi insertions are assessed together during posterior shoulder surgery and in the evaluation of posteroinferior rotator cuff tears and posterior shoulder impingement. Teres major tendon tears are rare but described in overhead athletes and weightlifters, causing posterior axillary pain and weakness of adduction and internal rotation. MRI demonstrates the tear and associated muscle oedema. The tendon transfer of teres major to restore external rotation is performed for infraspinatus deficiency in massive rotator cuff tears.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Teres Major Tendon Tear

A rare injury in overhead athletes and heavy lifters producing acute posterior axillary pain with ecchymosis during a resisted internal rotation or adduction effort; MRI confirms the tear and guides conservative or surgical management depending on severity and functional demand.