Posterior Capsular Ligament Detail

capsula articularis glenohumeralis posterior

The posterior glenohumeral capsule extends from the posterior glenoid neck to the anatomical neck of the humerus, reinforced by the posterior band of the inferior glenohumeral ligament. It is normally thin and redundant.

Region: Shoulder

Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Provides posterior constraint of the glenohumeral joint, limits anterior humeral head translation during posterior loading activities, and its contracture is the primary pathology in internal impingement and GIRD (glenohumeral internal rotation deficit).

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Posterior capsular contracture (GIRD) in throwing athletes shifts the glenohumeral rotation pattern, causing the posterior-superior labrum and infraspinatus to impinge on the posterior glenoid during late cocking. Posterior capsular stretching (sleeper stretch) and arthroscopic posterior capsular release address GIRD.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

GIRD — Posterior Capsular Contracture

Posterior capsular tightness in throwing athletes producing glenohumeral internal rotation deficit and altered kinematics causing internal impingement and posterior labral pathology.

Posterior Capsular Release for GIRD

Arthroscopic posterior capsular release at the glenoid margin in throwers with persistent GIRD unresponsive to stretching, restoring symmetric glenohumeral rotation.