In the shoulder, the coracohumeral ligament primarily resists which movement, making it the key restraint against inferior humeral head translation when the arm is at the side?

• A Inferior translation (prevents inferior subluxation) and resists external rotation in adduction ✓
• B External rotation in abduction
• C Anterior translation during abduction and external rotation
• D Superior migration of the humeral head

Explanation

The coracohumeral ligament runs from the coracoid process to the greater and lesser tuberosities, reinforcing the superior glenohumeral capsule. It is the primary static restraint against inferior subluxation of the humeral head when the arm is at the side, and also limits external rotation in adduction. The inferior glenohumeral ligament (IGHL) is the primary restraint against anterior instability in abduction/external rotation. Contracture of the coracohumeral ligament is pathognomonic in frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis).

Reference: BD Chaurasia's Human Anatomy, 8th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.