Axillary joints

Axillary Joints are a group of joints located in the axilla or armpit region of the body. They are part of the shoulder complex, which includes the glenohumeral joint, the acromioclavicular joint, the sternoclavicular joint, and the scapulothoracic joint. The axillary joints play a crucial role in the movement and stability of the shoulder.

Anatomy

The axillary joints are surrounded by a complex network of muscles, ligaments, and nerves. The main muscles involved include the pectoralis major, pectoralis minor, subscapularis, teres major, and latissimus dorsi. The axillary nerve and the posterior circumflex humeral artery pass through the axillary joint region.

Axillary Joints and surrounding structures

Function

The axillary joints allow for a wide range of motion in the shoulder. They enable movements such as flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, internal rotation, and external rotation. The stability of these joints is maintained by the surrounding muscles and ligaments.

Clinical Significance

Injuries or disorders of the axillary joints can lead to conditions such as shoulder impingement syndrome, rotator cuff tear, and frozen shoulder. Treatment may involve physiotherapy, medication, or in severe cases, surgery.

See Also

• Shoulder joint
• Glenohumeral joint
• Acromioclavicular joint
• Sternoclavicular joint
• Scapulothoracic joint