For increasing shoulder flexion and medial rotation, which glide is most appropriate?

For increasing shoulder flexion and medial rotation, which glide is most appropriate?

• A. Posterior
• B. Anterior
• C. Medial
• D. Lateral

Answer: (A)

A posterior glide of the humeral head is used to increase both shoulder flexion and internal (medial) rotation because it aligns with how the ball moves on the socket during these motions. The humeral head is convex and moves on the concave glenoid; for flexion, the head tends to roll forward (anteriorly). Applying a posterior glide provides the opposite translation, allowing the head to seat and move more freely within the socket, which enhances the amount of flexion you can achieve. Internal rotation is likewise facilitated by this posterior glide, as it helps the head navigate within the posterior portion of the joint and capsule, reducing restriction there. In contrast, other glides would target different directions of movement (e.g., anterior glide would more directly aid external rotation), so the posterior glide best addresses both requested motions.

A posterior glide of the humeral head is used to increase both shoulder flexion and internal (medial) rotation because it aligns with how the ball moves on the socket during these motions. The humeral head is convex and moves on the concave glenoid; for flexion, the head tends to roll forward (anteriorly). Applying a posterior glide provides the opposite translation, allowing the head to seat and move more freely within the socket, which enhances the amount of flexion you can achieve. Internal rotation is likewise facilitated by this posterior glide, as it helps the head navigate within the posterior portion of the joint and capsule, reducing restriction there. In contrast, other glides would target different directions of movement (e.g., anterior glide would more directly aid external rotation), so the posterior glide best addresses both requested motions.