Upper limb mnemonic

Muscles of the rotator cuff

The mnemonic

SITS

What each word stands for

  • SSupraspinatus — initiates abduction (suprascapular nerve)
  • IInfraspinatus — external rotation (suprascapular nerve)
  • TTeres minor — external rotation (axillary nerve)
  • SSubscapularis — internal rotation (upper and lower subscapular nerves)

Why it matters clinically

Supraspinatus is most commonly torn; the empty-can test assesses it.

Where it stops being reliable

Lists the muscles only; it does not give their nerve supply or actions, so learn those separately.

Teaching aid, still awaiting independent review. Confirm facts in a standard source.

More mnemonics

Common questions

What is the Upper limb mnemonic?

SITS. It helps you recall: Muscles of the rotator cuff.

What does "S" stand for?

Subscapularis — internal rotation (upper and lower subscapular nerves)

What does "I" stand for?

Infraspinatus — external rotation (suprascapular nerve)

What does "T" stand for?

Teres minor — external rotation (axillary nerve)

What are all the parts of the SITS mnemonic?

S: Supraspinatus — initiates abduction (suprascapular nerve); I: Infraspinatus — external rotation (suprascapular nerve); T: Teres minor — external rotation (axillary nerve); S: Subscapularis — internal rotation (upper and lower subscapular nerves).

Which topic does this mnemonic belong to?

It belongs to Upper limb in Anatomy.

Where does this mnemonic stop being reliable?

Lists the muscles only; it does not give their nerve supply or actions, so learn those separately.

How is this useful clinically?

Supraspinatus is most commonly torn; the empty-can test assesses it.

How do I make this mnemonic stick?

Say it aloud, write it from memory tomorrow, then again in a week. Then test yourself on a Anatomy question about Upper limb.

Is this a standard mnemonic?

It is a teaching aid written or adapted by our team. Some resemble ones students share informally. Check any fact that matters in a standard source.