Armhebung

Armhebung is a term used in anatomy and clinical practice to describe the raising of the upper limb away from the trunk. It encompasses movements such as flexion (anterior elevation) and abduction (lateral elevation) of the arm, involving the glenohumeral joint as well as the acromioclavicular, sternoclavicular, and scapulothoracic articulations.

Normal arm elevation to about 180 degrees relies on a coordinated scapulohumeral rhythm. Approximately two-thirds of the movement occurs at the glenohumeral joint and about one-third at scapulothoracic articulation, with the scapula upwardly rotating to enable full abduction. The initial portion of elevation is driven by the supraspinatus and the deltoid, after which the deltoid provides major propulsion and the trapezius and serratus anterior coordinate the scapular rotation required for continued movement.

Muscle involvement is distributed among several groups. The primary movers for elevation are the deltoid (especially the middle fibers) and the rotator cuff stabilizers; the supraspinatus initiates abduction. Scapular upward rotation is facilitated by the trapezius and serratus anterior, allowing clearance of the humeral head during elevation. Accessory muscles can contribute in different planes or to stabilization.

clinically, arm elevation is a common measure in physical examination and rehabilitation. Limitations in elevation can indicate rotator cuff pathology, adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder), impingement syndromes, or weakness of the scapular stabilizers. ROM is typically assessed as active and passive elevation in sagittal or coronal planes, informing diagnosis and guiding therapy.