The Shoulder Joint

The shoulder joint is a primarily muscle-guided and muscle-controlled joint ­ which explains its excellent mobility. In other words (and in contrast to the hip joint, whose stability is largely ensured by ligaments), the shoulder joint's articulate connection (head of humerus with a relatively small socket) is formed by muscles. Unfortunately, increased mobility comes at a price, namely less stability.

Shoulder luxation (dislocation of the shoulder joint or so-called "slipped shoulder") is one example of reduced stability. Whether congenital or caused by trauma, this condition inevitably damages the capsuloligamental complex. Secondary diseases include the tendon rupture (rotator cuff rupture), which can be caused either by wear or trauma, and the impingement syndrome (which is based on acute or chronic inflammation).