The glenohumeral joint relies primarily on which structure (not the bony architecture) for static stability in the adducted arm at rest?

• A Superior glenohumeral ligament and coracohumeral ligament complex ✓
• B Coracoacromial arch forming a roof
• C Inferior glenohumeral ligament (anterior band) limiting external rotation
• D Rotator cuff muscle contraction during rest

Explanation

At rest with the arm in neutral/adducted position, the primary static stabilizer preventing inferior subluxation of the humeral head is the superior glenohumeral ligament (SGHL) and the coracohumeral ligament (CHL), which form a rotator interval complex that acts as a superior hammock. The inferior glenohumeral ligament (anterior band) becomes taut during abduction and external rotation and is the primary restraint against anterior dislocation in the abducted externally rotated position (the 'apprehension position'). The rotator cuff provides dynamic stabilization via concavity-compression.

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

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.