From the Guidelines
The glenoid is a shallow, pear-shaped socket on the lateral edge of the scapula (shoulder blade) that forms part of the shoulder joint, serving as the socket component of the ball-and-socket joint where the rounded head of the humerus (upper arm bone) fits into this shallow depression. The shoulder joint, also called the glenohumeral joint, is the most mobile joint in the human body, allowing for a wide range of motion in multiple directions, as noted in studies on shoulder arthroplasty and its complications 1. This exceptional mobility comes at the cost of stability, as the glenoid socket is relatively shallow compared to other ball-and-socket joints like the hip. To enhance stability, the glenoid is surrounded by a ring of fibrocartilage called the labrum, which deepens the socket and provides attachment points for ligaments. The shoulder joint is further supported by a group of muscles and tendons known as the rotator cuff, which help maintain the humeral head centered in the glenoid during movement, a concept supported by the evidence on the treatment of glenohumeral osteoarthritis 1.
Some key points about the glenoid and shoulder joint include:
- The glenoid morphology and bone loss can play a significant factor in recurrent shoulder dislocations, as discussed in the context of shoulder pain-traumatic conditions 1.
- Imaging studies, including radiography, are crucial in evaluating the shoulder joint and glenoid for various conditions, including fractures, dislocations, and osteoarthritis, with specific views recommended for different scenarios 1.
- The management of shoulder joint conditions, such as osteoarthritis, may involve surgical interventions like total shoulder arthroplasty, which has been shown to provide improved outcomes in terms of pain relief and function 1.
Overall, understanding the anatomy and function of the glenoid and shoulder joint is essential for diagnosing and managing various shoulder conditions, with a focus on maintaining mobility and stability, as informed by the most recent and highest quality studies available 1.
From the Research
Definition of Glenoid and Shoulder
- The glenoid is a part of the shoulder joint, specifically the socket of the scapula (shoulder blade) that articulates with the head of the humerus (upper arm bone) to form the glenohumeral joint 2.
- The shoulder, also known as the glenohumeral joint, is a complex joint that allows for a wide range of motion, including flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, rotation, and circumduction.
Anatomy of the Glenoid
- The glenoid fossa is the concave surface of the scapula that receives the head of the humerus, and its shape, height, width, and articular surface area can vary from person to person 2.
- The glenoid version and inclination are also important factors to consider in the anatomy of the glenoid, as they can affect the stability and function of the shoulder joint.
Relationship between Glenoid and Shoulder
- The glenoid and humeral head work together to form the glenohumeral joint, which is a ball-and-socket joint that allows for a wide range of motion 2.
- The shape and morphology of the glenoid can affect the function and stability of the shoulder joint, and changes in the glenoid can be associated with conditions such as osteoarthritis.