Which three bones make up the shoulder joint?

The shoulder joint is comprised of three crucial bones: the scapula, clavicle, and humerus. The scapula, often referred to as the shoulder blade, provides a base for the attachment of muscles and articulates with the humerus at the glenohumeral joint, which is the ball-and-socket joint that enables a wide range of arm movements. The clavicle, or collarbone, connects the arm to the body and sits at the front of the shoulder, serving as a strut that stabilizes the shoulder. Together, these three bones create a complex structure that facilitates a high degree of mobility in the upper limb, essential for various physical activities.

The other options do not include the correct bones associated with the shoulder. The radius and ulna are bones of the forearm, not related to the shoulder joint. The femur and pelvis are part of the hip joint. Likewise, the patella and fibula belong to the knee and lower leg respectively, and have no direct association with the shoulder structure. Understanding the specific anatomy involved in the shoulder joint is vital for physical therapy practice, particularly in assessing and treating shoulder injuries.