Muscle · Neck & shoulder · Teres major / minor
Teres muscle pain
Common at this spot
Ordered by how common, not by search volume.
-
Teres major strain
The upper back pulls when reaching back or throwing
Get help right away ifCall emergency services or go to A&E if you heard a crack when it happened, if the injured part has changed shape, if it has turned blue or grey, or if it feels numb.
Why it happens
Something has been overstretched or torn — here, the teres major behind the shoulder. It happens when you overstretch or twist, and more easily if you did not warm up or it was already tired.
How it feels
- Pain, tenderness, or weakness
- Swelling or bruising
- Muscle cramping or spasms
- You cannot put weight on it or use it normally
How long it usually lasts
Most feel better after about 2 weeks. Avoid heavy exercise such as running for up to 8 weeks.
When to see a doctor
Get advice if severe pain is getting worse, if swelling or bruising is bad or worsening, if you cannot put weight on it or move it, or if you have a high temperature or feel shivery (that can mean infection).
Source: NHS (UK)
-
Quadrilateral space syndrome
Pain behind the shoulder with tingling down the outer arm
-
Teres minor tendinitis
The back of the shoulder feels raw when rotating the arm outward
Why it happens
A tendon swells after an injury — here, the teres minor tendon behind the shoulder. It comes from sudden movements or repeated exercise such as running, jumping, or throwing, and from repeating the same motion with poor form or technique.
How it feels
- Pain in the tendon that gets worse when you move
- Trouble moving that joint
- A grating or crackling feeling when the tendon moves
- Swelling, sometimes with heat or redness
How long it usually lasts
Mild tendonitis should feel better within 2 to 3 weeks.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if it has not improved after a few weeks. Get urgent advice if the pain is severe or you think the tendon has ruptured.
Source: NHS (UK)
-
Infraspinatus tendinitis
The back of the shoulder is stiff and hurts when rotating outward
Same as “Teres minor tendinitis” above.
-
Teres minor trigger point
A long, electric line of pain from the shoulder down the arm