A Comprehensive Guide to the Anatomy of the Shoulder: Glenohumeral, Acromioclavicular, and Sternoclavicular Joints

The shoulder is made up of what three joints?

The shoulder is made up of three joints – the glenohumeral joint, the acromioclavicular joint, and the sternoclavicular joint

The shoulder is made up of three joints – the glenohumeral joint, the acromioclavicular joint, and the sternoclavicular joint.

1. Glenohumeral Joint: This is the main joint of the shoulder and is a ball-and-socket joint formed between the head of the humerus bone (upper arm bone) and the glenoid cavity of the scapula (shoulder blade). It allows for a wide range of motion, enabling movements such as flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, internal rotation, and external rotation.

2. Acromioclavicular Joint: Located at the top of the shoulder, this joint is formed by the acromion process of the scapula and the clavicle. It is a gliding joint that allows for minimal movement. It provides stability to the shoulder and helps in transferring forces between the upper limb and the axial skeleton.

3. Sternoclavicular Joint: This joint connects the clavicle (collarbone) to the sternum (breastbone) at the front of the chest. It is a saddle joint that allows for movement in multiple directions, including elevation, depression, protraction, retraction, and rotation. The sternoclavicular joint provides support and stability to the shoulder girdle.

Understanding the anatomy of these three joints is important for diagnosing and treating shoulder-related conditions and injuries. It also helps in developing appropriate exercise routines and rehabilitation programs for shoulder rehabilitation and preventing further complications.

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