Definition of Shoulder

Shoulder

The shoulder consists of two primary bones: the scapula and the humerus, which is the long bone of the upper arm. The scapula features a socket known as the glenoid, into which the head of the humerus fits, creating a versatile ball-and-socket joint. This bone has an unusual shape, extending upwards and around the back of the shoulder joint to form a roof called the acromion, and at the front to form the coracoid process. The shoulder joint is cushioned by cartilage covering the glenoid socket and the head of the humerus. Stability is provided by a fibrous cartilage ring surrounding the glenoid socket, known as the labrum. Ligaments link the shoulder bones, while tendons connect these bones to the surrounding muscles. The biceps tendon attaches the biceps muscle to the shoulder, contributing to joint stability. Additionally, four short muscles originating from the scapula encircle the shoulder, with their tendons merging to create the rotator cuff.

Medical Definition & Meaning

Get your AHA BLS, ACLS, and PALS Provider Certification today

Get your AHA BLS, ACLS, and PALS Provider Certification today

CPR Certification Labs has multiple classes available every day

Choose a course

What the AHA CPR Certification Course Includes

Comprehensive CPR Training for Adults, Children, and Infants

Our technology delivers immediate, actionable feedback that refines your skills in real time.

Proper Use of AED Devices for All Age Groups

Understand how to safely and effectively operate an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) for adults, children, and infants.

Airway Obstruction Relief and Heimlich Maneuver

Learn how to perform the Heimlich maneuver and clear airway obstructions caused by choking in both adults and infants.

Team-Based Multi-Rescuer CPR Techniques

Gain experience working as part of a team when more than one rescuer is available during an emergency.

Official American Heart Association CPR E-Card

Receive your AHA CPR Certification E-Card on the same day you complete the class and pass the exam.

Get your AHA BLS, ACLS, and PALS Provider Certification today

Local news