What does the transverse humeral ligament maintain?

The transverse humeral ligament plays a crucial role in maintaining the position of the tendon of the long head of the biceps brachii muscle. This ligament is a fibrous band that extends from the greater tubercle to the lesser tubercle of the humerus, effectively creating a constraining space for the biceps tendon as it travels from the shoulder joint to the bicipital groove. By securing the tendon within this groove, the transverse humeral ligament prevents displacement during shoulder movements, thus contributing to the stability of the biceps tendon and facilitating its functional role in shoulder flexion and supination.

Understanding this function is essential for recognizing the importance of ligamentous structures in maintaining joint integrity and the role they play in the biomechanics of movement. The transverse humeral ligament ensures that the tendon remains properly positioned and less prone to injury during various activities.