Ch._18_Shoulder_Joint_Complex--2024

Shoulder Joint Complex

The system comprised of the humerus, scapula, clavicle, and sternum connecting to form the shoulder.

Sternoclavicular (SC) Joint

A saddle synovial joint between the proximal end of the clavicle and the manubrium.

Acromioclavicular (AC) Joint

A plane synovial joint formed by the distal end of the clavicle and the acromion of the scapula.

Glenohumeral (GH) Joint

A ball and socket synovial joint connecting the humeral head with the glenoid fossa.

Fibrous Joint

A joint connected by a thin layer of fibrous periosteum, with no movement; includes sutures.

Synovial Joint

A joint characterized by a fluid-filled cavity, allowing for free motion—includes hip and knee joints.

Hyaline Cartilage

Smooth articular cartilage that covers the ends of opposing bones in synovial joints.

Ligaments

Bands of fibrous connective tissue that hold bones together in a joint.

Coracohumeral Ligament

Connects the coracoid process to the superior part of the joint capsule in the GH joint.

Acromioclavicular Joint Ligaments

Ligaments that reinforce the AC joint, including superior and inferior acromioclavicular ligaments.

Transverse Humeral Ligament

Thickens the joint capsule and prevents bowing of the long head of the biceps tendon.

Glenoid Labrum

Fibrocartilaginous structure that deepens the glenoid cavity of the shoulder.

Bursa

Small pad-like sacs that reduce friction in areas of excessive movement, found under tendons.

Rotator Cuff

The group of muscles and their tendons that act to stabilize the shoulder joint.

Degrees of Freedom

The number of independent movements a joint can perform, such as uniaxial or biaxial.

Synovial Fluid

Thick, clear fluid that lubricates articular cartilage in synovial joints.

Articular Capsule

A sleeve-like structure that surrounds a synovial joint, including both an outer fibrous layer and an inner synovial membrane.