Shoulder Anatomy Review: Understanding Structural and Functional Anatomy for Clinical Practice

This course provides licensed physical therapists and physical therapist assistants with a comprehensive, clinically oriented review of the anatomy of the shoulder complex. Using a combination of didactic and practical learning experiences, participants will explore the structural organization, osteology, arthrology, myology, capsuloligamentous structures, and neurovascular components of the glenohumeral and scapulothoracic regions while directly relating these elements to functional movement and pathology.

The course bridges textbook anatomy with real-world clinical application. Attendees will revisit bony landmarks, soft-tissue relationships, and capsular architecture using dissection-based visuals. Each structure is discussed not only from an anatomical standpoint but also in the context of its relevance to common musculoskeletal conditions such as rotator cuff–related shoulder pain, labral pathology, adhesive capsulitis, and post-operative considerations including tenodesis and arthroplasty.

Special emphasis is placed on dynamic stabilization and force-couple interactions across the rotator cuff, deltoid, periscapular musculature, and long head of the biceps. Attendees will also review palpation landmarks and clinical examination strategies to enhance diagnostic precision and intervention planning.

By the end of the session, participants will be able to correlate detailed anatomical knowledge with biomechanical function and clinical reasoning, supporting evidence-based rehabilitation and improved patient outcomes.

This course is designed for physical therapists and physical therapist assistants seeking to deepen their anatomical and functional understanding for direct clinical application in orthopedic and sports settings.

This course is currently pending approval by the NJSBPTE for 6.0 continuing education hours. Approval number will be provided upon approval.