The Shoulder Complex - Joints & Movements

2. Joints, movements and ligaments (6-minutes): Identification of the relevant articulations, demonstration and description of available movements, planes of movement and expected ranges of motion. Follow-up questions may explore joint classification, properties, structure and function. "Tell me what you know about the joints and movements of the shoulder complex."

What are the four joints of the shoulder complex?

1. Glenohumeral

2. Acromioclavicular

3. Sternoclavicular

4. Scapulothoracic

What articulating surfaces make up the Glenohumeral joint?

The Head of Humerus and the Glenoid of the Scapula

What bones make up the Acromioclavicular joint?

The Acromion of the Scapula and the Clavicle

What bones make up the Sternoclavicular joint?

Sternum and Clavicle

What bones make up the Scapulothoracic joint?

Scapula and Thorax (rib cage)

What’s the classification of the Glenohumeral joint?

Synovial Ball & Socket

What movements can be performed at the Glenohumeral joint at the Sagittal plane?

Flexion and Extension

What movements can be performed at the Glenohumeral joint in the Frontal plane?

Abduction and Adduction

What movements can be performed at the Glenohumeral joint in the Transverse plane?

Medial Rotation and Lateral Rotation (also known as Internal and External Rotation)

Horizontal Flexion and Horizontal Extension

What’s the classification of the Scapulothoracic joint?

Not a synovial joint

What movements are performed at the Scapulothoracic joint in the Sagittal plane?

Protraction and Retraction

What movements can be performed at the Scapulothoracic joint in the Frontal plane?

Elevation and Depression