The function of the coracoacromial ligament was investigated in 8 dissecting-room scapulae. Strain gauges were attached around the coracoid process and the acromion, and tension (50 or 100 N) applied through the remaining muscle stumps. The results showed that, after division of the ligament, significantly more distortion could be measured in the acromion than in the coracoid process, which suggests that the ‘stay’ effect of the coracoacromial ligament is stronger for the former. Since the degree of distortion is largely dependent on the direction of pull the ligament is interpreted as a dynamic brace between the two processes of the scap