Where Is The Glenoid Cavity Located

The glenoid cavity is found in the scapula or shoulder blade. The head of the humerus fits in the glenoid cavity by a ball and socket joint.

Glenoid Cavity

The glenoid cavity, also known as the glenoid fossa, is a small depression located at the lateral part of the scapula bone or shoulder blade of the pectoral girdle. It is situated below the acromion process.

The glenohumeral joint is a type of synovial joint known as the ball and socket joint, which articulates the glenoid cavity with the humerus of the upper limb.

The biceps tendon helps to keep the humerus in place in the glenoid cavity. The muscles of the rotator cuff also ensure that the head of the humerus is properly fitted in the glenoid cavity. This not only stabilizes the shoulder joint but also allows for a wide range of movement.

The glenoid cavity is shallower compared to the acetabulum, where the head of the femur or thigh bone fits, providing more mobility. This is also the cause of frequent dislocation.

The glenoid cavity is the point of attachment for the upper limb to the trunk.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of joint is found in the glenoid cavity?

The shoulder joint or glenohumeral joint has a ball and socket type of articulation. Specifically, the proximal extremity of the humerus (the ball) articulates with the glenoid cavity of the scapula (the socket).

The Glenoid Labrum

The glenoid labrum is a ring of cartilage that surrounds the shoulder joint socket. It helps to deepen the socket, providing stability and support to the shoulder joint.

The glenoid labrum is a rim-like attachment that is situated around the margin of the glenoid cavity in the scapula. This labrum serves to deepen the glenoid cavity, and is typically a triangular structure, though it can sometimes be rounded or cleaved.

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