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💀anatomy and physiology i review

Glenohumeral Ligaments

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

The glenohumeral ligaments are a group of ligaments that connect the head of the humerus to the glenoid cavity of the scapula, forming the shoulder joint. These ligaments provide stability and limit the range of motion in the glenohumeral joint, which is a ball-and-socket joint.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. The glenohumeral ligaments are essential for providing stability and limiting the range of motion in the shoulder joint.
  2. There are three main glenohumeral ligaments: the superior, middle, and inferior glenohumeral ligaments.
  3. The superior glenohumeral ligament helps to limit inferior and anterior translation of the humeral head.
  4. The middle glenohumeral ligament limits external rotation of the humerus when the arm is abducted.
  5. The inferior glenohumeral ligament is the strongest of the three and helps to limit anterior and inferior translation of the humeral head.

Review Questions

  • Describe the role of the glenohumeral ligaments in the shoulder joint.
    • The glenohumeral ligaments play a crucial role in providing stability and limiting the range of motion in the shoulder joint. The superior, middle, and inferior glenohumeral ligaments work together to restrict the movement of the humeral head within the glenoid cavity, preventing excessive translation and rotation. This helps to maintain the integrity of the shoulder joint and protect it from injury during various movements and activities.
  • Explain how the different glenohumeral ligaments contribute to the overall stability of the shoulder joint.
    • The three main glenohumeral ligaments each have specific functions in stabilizing the shoulder joint. The superior glenohumeral ligament helps to limit inferior and anterior translation of the humeral head, the middle glenohumeral ligament restricts external rotation when the arm is abducted, and the inferior glenohumeral ligament is the strongest, limiting anterior and inferior translation of the humeral head. Together, these ligaments work synergistically to maintain the proper alignment and range of motion in the shoulder joint, preventing excessive movement that could lead to instability or injury.
  • Analyze the potential consequences of damage or weakening of the glenohumeral ligaments on shoulder joint function.
    • Damage or weakening of the glenohumeral ligaments can have significant consequences on the function and stability of the shoulder joint. Without the stabilizing effects of these ligaments, the humeral head may experience increased translation and excessive range of motion, leading to shoulder instability, dislocation, or subluxation. This can impair the joint's ability to withstand the forces and stresses placed on it during everyday activities and athletic movements, increasing the risk of further injury. Rehabilitation and strengthening of the surrounding musculature may be necessary to compensate for the loss of ligamentous support and restore proper shoulder joint mechanics.