Functional Anatomy of the Shoulder Complex

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to the functional anatomy of the shoulder complex, aiding in understanding the mechanics and clinical significance of shoulder movements.

Adhesive Capsulitis

A condition characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint, commonly known as frozen shoulder.

Bicipital Tendinitis

An inflammation of the tendon of the long head of the biceps brachii, often causing shoulder pain.

Dynamic Stability

The ability of the shoulder to maintain its position and function during movement through coordinated muscular contractions.

Scapular Winging

A condition where the scapula protrudes outwards, away from the ribcage due to weakness of the serratus anterior muscle.

Scapulohumeral Rhythm

The coordinated movement of the scapula and humerus during shoulder motion.

Shoulder Separation

An injury where the clavicle separates from the acromion of the scapula, often resulting from a fall.

FOOSH (Fall on Outstretched Hands)

An injury mechanism referring to falling on an outstretched hand, commonly resulting in shoulder injuries.

Static Stability

The ability of the shoulder joint to remain stable when not actively moved, primarily provided by passive structures.

Glenohumeral Subluxation

A partial dislocation of the shoulder joint, where the humeral head partially separates from the glenoid fossa.

Hemiparesis

Weakness on one side of the body, often occurring after a stroke, affecting shoulder function.

Rotator Cuff

A group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint and allow for shoulder movement.

Subacromial Impingement

A condition where tendons of the rotator cuff become compressed during shoulder movements, leading to pain.

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS)

A condition affecting the space between the collarbone and the first rib, causing nerve compression and shoulder pain.

Scaption

A movement of the arm in the scapular plane, typically more comfortable for shoulder activities.

Scapular Dyskinesis

Abnormal movement of the scapula, often leading to shoulder dysfunction.

Scapular Plane

The plane in which the scapula sits, approximately 30°-40° anterior to the frontal plane.

Acromion

The bony prominence on the scapula where it meets the clavicle.

Clavicle (Collarbone)

An S-shaped bone that connects the arm to the body, providing structural support for the shoulder.

Sternoclavicular Joint

The joint between the clavicle and the sternum, providing attachment to the axial skeleton.

Acromioclavicular Joint

The joint between the acromion of the scapula and the clavicle, allowing for shoulder mobility.

Glenohumeral Joint

The ball-and-socket joint between the humerus and the glenoid fossa of the scapula, allowing for a wide range of motion.

Deltoid Tuberosity

A rough area on the lateral side of the humerus where the deltoid muscle attaches.

Inferior Glenohumeral Ligament

A ligament that provides stability to the glenohumeral joint, particularly at extreme ranges of motion.

Glenoid Labrum

A ring of cartilage that surrounds the glenoid fossa, deepening the socket for the humeral head.

Rotator Cuff Tears

Injuries to the muscles and tendons of the rotator cuff, often resulting in pain and loss of shoulder function.

Scapulothoracic Joint

An atypical joint that allows gliding movement between the scapula and rib cage.

Intertubercular Groove

A groove between the greater and lesser tubercles of the humerus that houses the tendon of the long head of the biceps.

Suprascapular Notch

A notch on the scapula that allows the passage of the suprascapular nerve.

Coracoid Process

A small hook-like structure on the scapula that serves as an attachment point for ligaments and muscles.

Greater Tubercle

A large bump on the humerus that serves as an attachment point for several rotator cuff muscles.

Lesser Tubercle

A smaller bump on the proximal humerus, providing an attachment point for the subscapularis muscle.