Musculoskeletal SystemDifficulty 3/5
Using the convex-concave rule, which glide increases shoulder abduction at the glenohumeral joint?
- AAnterior glide of the glenoid on the humeral head
- BPosterior glide of the humeral head to free the capsule
- CSuperior glide of the humeral head on the glenoid
- DInferior glide of the humeral head on the glenoid
Show answer and rationale
Correct: D. The convex humeral head moves on a concave glenoid, so the roll and glide are opposite: abduction rolls superiorly and glides inferiorly. Inferior glide is therefore the mobilisation that increases abduction.
- C — Superior glide opposes the required arthrokinematics and can impinge.
- A — The glenoid is the fixed concave surface in this technique.
- B — Posterior glide primarily increases internal rotation and flexion.