ShoulderRegion

ShoulderRegion refers to the anatomical area surrounding the shoulder, encompassing the glenohumeral joint and the adjacent bones, muscles, nerves, and vessels that stabilize and move the upper limb. It includes the clavicle, scapula, and proximal humerus, as well as the soft tissues and joints that contribute to shoulder function.

The skeletal components of the shoulder region are the clavicle anteriorly, the scapula posteriorly, and the proximal humerus. The major joints are the sternoclavicular joint (where the clavicle meets the sternum), the acromioclavicular joint (where the clavicle meets the acromion of the scapula), and the glenohumeral joint (the ball-and-socket joint between the humeral head and the glenoid fossa). The scapulothoracic articulation, a functional interface between the scapula and thoracic wall, also contributes to shoulder movement.

Muscles in the region include the deltoid, which covers the shoulder laterally; the rotator cuff muscles—supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis—which stabilize the glenohumeral joint; and the larger shoulder girdle muscles such as the trapezius, serratus anterior, pectoralis major, latissimus dorsi, and teres major that coordinate arm motion and scapular positioning.

Neurovascular structures in the ShoulderRegion derive from the subclavian and axillary arteries and include nerves such as the axillary, suprascapular, subscapular, thoracodorsal, and long thoracic nerves. These elements support sensation, blood supply, and motor control of the shoulder and upper limb.

Clinical relevance includes common conditions such as shoulder dislocation, rotator cuff tears, impingement, acromioclavicular injuries, and adhesive capsulitis, all of which can affect range of motion and arm strength.