Shoulder Anatomy

Introduction:

The Shoulder is one of the largest and most complex joints in the body. The human Shoulder is made up of three bones: the Clavicle (Collarbone), the Scapula (Shoulder Blade), and the Humerus (Upper Arm Bone) as well as associated muscles, ligaments and tendons. The articulations between the bones of the Shoulder make up the Shoulder Joints. "Shoulder Joint" typically refers to the Glenohumeral Joint, (that is where the Humerus, the Upper Arm Bone fits into the Scapula, the Shoulder blade), like a bal2 l and socket which is the major joint of the "Shoulder".

The Acromioclavicular Joint (where the acromion, part of the Shoulder blade articulates with the clavicle, the collar bone) can also be broadly included in the Shoulder joint.

The Sternoclavicular Joint is a part of the Shoulder where the manubrium sterni articulates with the Clavicle (Collarbone).

The Scapulothoracic Joint (where the Scapula meets with the ribs at the back of the chest).