What is the other name for the shoulder joint?

The shoulder joint is commonly referred to as the gleno-humeral joint. This name comes from the anatomical structures involved in the joint's formation: the glenoid cavity of the scapula (shoulder blade) and the head of the humerus (upper arm bone). The gleno-humeral joint is a ball-and-socket joint that allows for a wide range of motion in the shoulder, enabling activities such as lifting, reaching, and throwing.

In contrast, the scapulothoracic joint is not a true anatomical joint but rather the area of movement between the scapula and the thoracic rib cage; the acromioclavicular joint connects the acromion (part of the scapula) with the clavicle and primarily facilitates stability rather than extensive movement; while the humeroulnar joint is the hinge joint of the elbow, allowing bending and straightening of the arm. Therefore, the gleno-humeral joint is the most accurate and widely recognized term specifically for the shoulder joint, emphasizing its unique structure and function.