Shoulder Joint

Question 1

What is the brachial plexus and its function?

Answer 1

• A network of nerves originating from the ventral branches of C6-T2 spinal nerves.
• It innervates the forelimb.

Question 2

What are joints and their 3 subdivisions.

Answer 2

Between every bone in skeleton:
1. Fibrous (very little movement)
2. Cartilagenous (little movement)
3. Synovial (free movement)

Question 3

What are the key features of a synovial joint and explain them.

Answer 3

1. Articular Cartilage: Smooth, glass-like cartilage that covers the ends of bones, reducing friction.
2. Joint Capsule: A fibrous outer layer that encloses the joint, providing stability.
3. Synovial Membrane: Inner lining of the joint capsule, secretes synovial fluid for lubrication.
4. Synovial Fluid: A lubricating liquid that reduces friction and nourishes the cartilage.
5. Ligaments: Strong bands of tissue that connect bones to stabilize the joint.

Question 4

What parts make up the shoulder joint?

Answer 4

• Glenoid cavity (scapula) and head of humerus
• Synovial joint features except poor developed collateral ligaments at the lateral aspect

Question 5

What 3 muscles support the shoulder joint?

Answer 5

Supraspinatus, infraspinatus and subscapularis

Question 6

Name the extensor muscles of the shoulder joint and their location.

Answer 6

1. Brachiocephalicus
2. Biceps brachii
   (Cranial to shoulder)

Question 7

Name the flexor muscles of the shoulder joint and their location.

Answer 7

1. Latissimus dorsi
2. Teres major
3. Teres minor
4. Deltoideus muscle
5. Triceps muscle
   (Caudal to shoulder)