Normal range of motion for the shoulder joint

Apr 24, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Lin Yunfei

Introduction

The normal range of motion for the shoulder joint typically ranges from 0 to 180 degrees, though specific values may vary depending on the type of movement. Since shoulder movement involves coordinated actions of bony structures such as the clavicle, humerus, and scapula, the normal range of motion is further categorized into flexion, extension, abduction and adduction, elevation and depression, as well as external and internal rotation. The shoulder is one of the joints with the greatest range of motion in the body.

The normal range of motion for the shoulder joint is typically from 0 to 180 degrees, but specific values depend on the type of movement. Since shoulder motion involves coordinated actions of skeletal structures such as the clavicle, humerus, and scapula, the normal range of shoulder joint movement can be further categorized into flexion, extension, abduction and adduction, elevation and depression, external rotation and internal rotation. The shoulder is one of the joints with the largest range of motion in the body. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Flexion

The normal range of shoulder flexion is from 0 to 180 degrees.

2. Extension

The normal range of extension is between 0 and 60 degrees.

3. Abduction and Adduction

The normal range of abduction is from 0 to 90 degrees, while the normal range of adduction is from 20 to 50 degrees.

4. Elevation and Depression

The normal range of elevation is typically 180 degrees. Depression can be considered the reverse motion of elevation; however, the depression movement is not a complete reversal of glenohumeral elevation.

5. External Rotation and Internal Rotation

The normal range for external rotation of the shoulder joint is 50 to 60 degrees, and for internal rotation, it is 50 to 70 degrees.

Because the shoulder joint is relatively vulnerable and prone to injury, excessive movements should be avoided during shoulder activities to prevent damage.

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