The shoulder girdle has two joints, one at either end of the clavicle, known as the acromioclavicular (AC) and sternoclavicular (SC) joints. There are three primary ligaments are responsible for SC articulation. The sternoclavicular ligament, with anterior , superior and posterior fibers, and two other ligaments help to stabilize the SC articulation.

Examine the two other ligaments that stabilize the SC articulation.

1 answer

In addition to the sternoclavicular ligament, which has anterior, posterior, and superior fibers, the two other primary ligaments that stabilize the sternoclavicular (SC) joint are the costoclavicular ligament and the interclavicular ligament.

  1. Costoclavicular Ligament:

    • This ligament runs from the first rib (costal cartilage) to the inferior surface of the clavicle. It stabilizes the SC joint by limiting the elevation of the clavicle and providing support during arm movements. The costoclavicular ligament plays a crucial role in maintaining the alignment of the clavicle with the ribcage, helping to prevent excessive upward movement of the clavicle.
  2. Interclavicular Ligament:

    • The interclavicular ligament connects the two clavicles across the jugular notch of the sternum. It helps to stabilize the SC joint by preventing excessive downward movement of the clavicle and provides support during movements that could create tension on the joint. This ligament functions in conjunction with the other supporting structures to maintain the overall stability of the shoulder girdle.

These ligaments, along with the sternoclavicular ligament, form a critical network of support that helps to ensure the stability and proper function of the sternoclavicular joint, allowing for a wide range of motion in the shoulder girdle.