Shoulder Anatomy

Question 1

Joints at the shoulder

Answer 1

Glenohumeral (Multiaxial Synovial Ball-and-Socket) - humeral head and the glenoid fossa of the scapula.
Acromioclavicular (Synovial Plane) Joint – acromion articulates with the clavicle.
Sternoclavicular (SC) – Sternum articulates with the clavicle

Scapulothoracic joint – Articulation of the scapula with the thorax. Allows for elevation and depression, protraction and retraction, and medial and lateral rotation

Question 2

Ligaments at the Glenohumeral

Answer 2

1. Coracohumeral - Coracoid process to greater tubercle of humerus
2. Glenohumeral – Supraglenoid tubercle to lesser tubercle of humerus, has superior, middle and inferior components.
3. Transverse humeral - Spans greater and lesser tubercles of humerus
4. Glenoid labrum - Margin of glenoid cavity of scapula

Question 3

Ligaments at the Acromioclavicular

Answer 3

1. Acromioclavicular - Acromion to clavicle
2. Coracoclavicular (conoid and trapezoid ligaments) - Clavicle to coracoid process, reinforces joint.

Question 4

Ligaments at the Sternoclavicular (SC)

Answer 4

1. Sternoclavicular – Clavicle and manubrium, consists of A&P ligaments
2. Interclavicular – Between both clavicles, connects two sternoclavicular joints
3. Costoclavicular – clavicle to first rib, anchors clavicle to first rib.

Question 5

Scapulothoracic joint

Answer 5

No ligaments, not a true joint. Stabilised by the trapezius muscle, serratus anterior muscle, levator scapulae and rhomboid muscles.