FUNCTIONAL-ANATOMY OF THE SHOULDER COMPLEX

Recent research findings are incorporated in this review of the functi onal anatomy of the shoulder complex. The scapulothoracic mechanism is described, including a review of scapular motion and the structure an d function of the sternoclavicular and acromioclavicular joints. New i nformation regarding the resting position of the scapula on the thorax and the effect of aging and spinal posture on position has been prese nted. In the second part of the paper, the anatomy of the glenohumeral joint is reviewed, with emphasis on the articular, periarticular, and muscular mechanisms responsible for stability of this articulation. T he article concludes with a discussion of the integrated function of t he scapulothoracic and glenohumeral articulations in upper extremity e levation.