The shoulder girdle is also known as the pectoral girdle.
The two main components are the clavicle (collarbone) and the scapula (shoulder blade).
The clavicle connects the arm to the body and articulates with the sternum and scapula.
The glenoid cavity is a feature of the scapula that articulates with the head of the humerus to form the shoulder joint.
The joints include the sternoclavicular joint, acromioclavicular joint, and glenohumeral joint.
The sternoclavicular joint connects the clavicle to the sternum and allows for limited movement in multiple directions.
The primary functions include support and stability, mobility, and force transmission.
Common injuries include shoulder dislocations, rotator cuff tears, and fractures of the clavicle or scapula.
Muscles include the trapezius, rhomboids, serratus anterior, and pectoralis minor.
The trapezius muscle elevates, retracts, and rotates the scapula.
It is crucial for assessment of shoulder injuries, designing rehabilitation programs, and preventing injuries.