Acromion

From WikiMD.org
Jump to navigation Jump to search

Acromion (pronunciation: /əˈkroʊmiən/) is a bony process on the scapula (shoulder blade). Together with the coracoid process, it extends laterally over the shoulder joint. The acromion is located at the superior end of the spine of the scapula and makes up the highest point of the shoulder.

Etymology

The term "acromion" comes from the Greek words "akros", which means "highest", and "omos", meaning "shoulder". Thus, the term literally translates to "highest point of the shoulder".

Anatomy

The acromion articulates with the clavicle (collar bone) to form the acromioclavicular joint. It serves as an attachment site for various muscles and ligaments, including the deltoid muscle and the trapezius muscle. The shape and structure of the acromion can vary among individuals, and this variation can influence the biomechanics of the shoulder joint.

Clinical Significance

The acromion is clinically significant in the context of shoulder injuries and disorders. For example, a downward or forward curvature of the acromion can lead to impingement syndrome, a condition where the tendons of the rotator cuff muscles become compressed. This can cause pain and limit shoulder mobility.

Furthermore, fractures of the acromion, while relatively rare, can occur due to direct trauma to the shoulder. Such fractures are typically managed with conservative treatment, but surgery may be required in severe cases.

Related Terms

External links

Esculaap.svg

This WikiMD dictionary article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.


Languages: - East Asian 中文, 日本, 한국어, South Asian हिन्दी, Urdu, বাংলা, తెలుగు, தமிழ், ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian Indonesian, Vietnamese, Thai, မြန်မာဘာသာ, European español, Deutsch, français, русский, português do Brasil, Italian, polski