TY - CHAP M1 - Book, Section TI - The Shoulder Complex A1 - Ludewig, Paula M. A1 - Borstad, John D. A2 - Levangie, Pamela K. A2 - Norkin, Cynthia C. PY - 2011 T2 - Joint Structure and Function: A Comprehensive Analysis, 5e AB - The shoulder complex, composed of the clavicle, scapula, and humerus, is an intricately designed combination of three joints that links the upper extremity to the thorax. The articular structures of the shoulder complex are designed primarily for mobility, allowing us to move and position the hand through a wide range of space. The glenohumeral (GH) joint, which links the humerus and scapula, has greater mobility than any other joint in the body. Although the components of the shoulder complex constitute half of the mass of the entire upper limb,1 they are connected to the axial skeleton by a single joint, the sternoclavicular (SC) joint. As a result, muscle forces serve as a primary mechanism for securing the shoulder girdle to the thorax and providing a stable base of support for upper extremity movements. SN - PB - McGraw-Hill Education CY - New York, NY Y2 - 2024/03/29 UR - fadavispt.mhmedical.com/content.aspx?aid=1132839289 ER -