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The teres major and latissimus dorsi work synergistically to facilitate adduction of the arm at the shoulder joint. Both muscles are located in the back and attach to the humerus, the bone of the upper arm, allowing them to pull the arm downward and toward the body. This action is particularly important in various physical activities, including swimming, rowing, and lifting motions.

Adduction refers to the movement of a limb toward the midline of the body. When the teres major and latissimus dorsi contract together, they create a powerful force that promotes this movement, supporting not only functional tasks but also athletic performance that requires strength and stability in the upper body.

In contrast, elbow extension involves the triceps brachii, while abduction would require muscles like the deltoids to lift the arm away from the body. Dorsiflexion is a movement related to the ankle joint, involving the tibialis anterior muscle. Thus, the role of the teres major and latissimus dorsi is specifically tied to the adduction motion at the shoulder joint.