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Intermediate Technical IVT

glenohumeral joint

Pronunciation: glee-no-HYOO-mer-al

Ball-and-socket joint formed by the humeral head and glenoid fossa of the scapula.

Full Definition

The glenohumeral joint is the primary ball-and-socket joint of the shoulder complex, formed by the articulation between the humeral head and the glenoid fossa of the scapula. This highly mobile joint allows for extensive range of motion in multiple planes but relies heavily on surrounding soft tissue structures for stability. Understanding glenohumeral joint mechanics is crucial for orthopedic rehabilitation, as many shoulder pathologies and movement dysfunctions involve this joint.

Usage

Usage note: Hyphenate when used as adjective modifier; may be abbreviated as GH joint.

In Context

  • "Glenohumeral joint mobilization was performed to address posterior capsular tightness." — Treatment documentation

Also known as

shoulder joint GH joint

Don't confuse with

acromioclavicular joint sternoclavicular joint

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