From the Research
The prominence on the top of the shoulder at the highest point is called the acromion process. This bony projection is part of the scapula (shoulder blade) and forms the outermost point of the shoulder. The acromion process serves several important functions: it articulates with the clavicle (collarbone) to form the acromioclavicular joint, provides attachment sites for muscles like the deltoid and trapezius, and creates a protective arch over the shoulder joint. This prominence is clinically significant as it can be involved in various shoulder conditions such as impingement syndrome, where the acromion can compress underlying soft tissues during arm movement, as discussed in the context of shoulder impingement syndrome 1. The acromion is easily palpable on physical examination and serves as an important anatomical landmark when assessing shoulder injuries or administering certain injections in the shoulder region. Some studies have investigated the role of the acromion in shoulder conditions, including its relation to the glenohumeral joint 2, but the most recent and highest quality studies focus on the management of shoulder impingement syndrome and rotator cuff tears, which often involve the acromion process 1, 3. Key points about the acromion process include:
- It is a bony projection of the scapula
- It forms the outermost point of the shoulder
- It articulates with the clavicle to form the acromioclavicular joint
- It provides attachment sites for muscles like the deltoid and trapezius
- It creates a protective arch over the shoulder joint
- It is involved in various shoulder conditions, including impingement syndrome
- It is easily palpable on physical examination and serves as an important anatomical landmark.