Humeral Head
The ball-shaped top of the upper arm bone (humerus) that fits into the shoulder socket. Arthritis here causes shoulder pain and limited range of motion.
Extended Definition
The humeral head forms the “ball” in the shoulder’s ball-and-socket joint. It articulates with the glenoid (socket) of the shoulder blade, creating the body’s most mobile joint.
Anatomy
- Size - About 1/3 of a sphere
- Covered by - Articular cartilage (2-3mm thick)
- Attached to - Rotator cuff muscles and tendons
- Blood supply - Can be vulnerable in fractures
Conditions Affecting the Humeral Head
- Osteoarthritis - Cartilage wear on the humeral head
- Avascular necrosis - Blood supply disruption
- Rotator cuff arthropathy - OA secondary to rotator cuff damage
- Fractures - Can damage cartilage surface
Symptoms of Humeral Head OA
- Deep shoulder pain
- Pain with overhead activities
- Grinding sensation
- Progressive loss of motion
- Night pain (advanced cases)
Treatment Options
Conservative treatments for humeral head arthritis:
- Physical therapy
- HA injections (though less common than knee)
- Corticosteroid injections
- Activity modification
Surgical options include shoulder replacement when conservative care fails.
Related Terms
More Anatomy Terms
View allAcetabulum
The cup-shaped socket of the pelvis that holds the head of the femur (thigh bone) in the hip joint.
Articular Cartilage
The smooth, white tissue covering the ends of bones in joints. Its breakdown is the primary feature of osteoarthritis.
Bursae
Small, fluid-filled sacs that act as cushions between bones, tendons, and muscles near joints, reducing friction during movement. Singular form is 'bursa.'
Bursa
Small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion bones, tendons, and muscles near joints. Bursitis (inflammation of a bursa) can cause joint pain similar to arthritis.
Cartilage
A smooth, rubbery connective tissue that covers and protects the ends of bones where they meet to form joints, allowing them to glide smoothly during movement.