Glenohumeral instability: which management approach is described?

• A. Strengthen RC muscles to compensate
• B. Avoid any strengthening and rest completely
• C. Focus only on elbow stabilization
• D. Strengthen only the deltoid muscle

Answer: (C)

Focusing on stabilization of the distal segment is about building a solid control base for the entire upper limb before loading the shoulder itself. Stabilizing the elbow helps reduce disruptive forces and teaches the nervous system to coordinate the arm as a unit, which protects the glenohumeral joint during movements. With the elbow and forearm stable, the shoulder can later progress to dynamic stabilization through the rotator cuff and scapular stabilizers, improving overall joint control. Strengthening only the deltoid misses the key stabilizers that protect the joint, and neglecting strengthening altogether isn’t consistent with active rehab. Resting completely also fails to retrain motor control and stability needed for functional use of the arm.