Pearl et al. propose a coordinate system for describing glenohumeral (humeroscapular) positions using four palpable scapular landmarks, then apply it in 15 normal subjects performing six standard shoulder ROM maneuvers to establish normative data for how the humerus actually moves relative to the scapula — not just relative to the thorax.
When evaluating glenohumeral pathology — instability, stiffness, impingement.
Palpating the four scapular landmarks gives you a real-time sense of where the humerus sits relative to the scapula, not just the body; this matters because cross-body and overhead motions involve far more scapulothoracic contribution than most clinicians appreciate, so apparent 'glenohumeral' restriction may partly reflect scapular hypomobility.
Pearl et al. propose a coordinate system for describing glenohumeral (humeroscapular) positions using four palpable scapular landmarks, then apply it in 15 normal subjects performing six standard shoulder ROM maneuvers to establish normative data for how the humerus actually moves relative to the scapula — not just relative to the thorax.
When evaluating glenohumeral pathology — instability, stiffness, impingement.
Palpating the four scapular landmarks gives you a real-time sense of where the humerus sits relative to the scapula, not just the body; this matters because cross-body and overhead motions involve far more scapulothoracic contribution than most clinicians appreciate, so apparent 'glenohumeral' restriction may partly reflect scapular hypomobility.