Sternoclavicular joint

Gray325

Pectoral girdles-en.svg

  [[File:File:Gray326.png|frameless|alt=]]

Sternoclavicular articulation. Anterior view.

Details
Synonyms
Pronunciation
Carnegie stage
Days
Precursor
Gives rise to
Part of

The sternoclavicular joint (SC joint) is a synovial joint between the sternum and the clavicle. It is one of the four joints that compose the shoulder complex, which also includes the acromioclavicular joint, the glenohumeral joint, and the scapulothoracic joint.

Anatomy[edit]

The sternoclavicular joint is a saddle joint but functions as a ball-and-socket joint due to the presence of an articular disc. The joint is formed by the articulation of the medial end of the clavicle with the manubrium of the sternum and the first costal cartilage.

Ligaments[edit]

The stability of the sternoclavicular joint is maintained by several ligaments:

The anterior sternoclavicular ligament and posterior sternoclavicular ligament reinforce the joint capsule.
The interclavicular ligament connects the two clavicles across the top of the sternum.
The costoclavicular ligament anchors the clavicle to the first rib.

Muscles[edit]

Several muscles contribute to the movement and stability of the sternoclavicular joint, including:

Function[edit]

The sternoclavicular joint allows for a wide range of movements, including:

Elevation and depression of the clavicle
Protraction and retraction of the clavicle
Rotation of the clavicle around its longitudinal axis

These movements are essential for the full range of motion of the shoulder.

Clinical significance[edit]

Injuries to the sternoclavicular joint are relatively rare but can occur due to trauma, such as a direct blow to the shoulder or a fall onto an outstretched hand. Conditions affecting the SC joint include:

Imaging[edit]

The sternoclavicular joint can be evaluated using various imaging techniques, including:

References[edit]

This medical article is a stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding the page.