Sternoclavicular Ligament

Description

The anterior and posterior sternoclavicular ligaments are labeled

Ligaments of the sternoclavicular joint

Anatomy of the sternoclavicular joints, viewed from the anterior aspect with the left joint intact and the right joint in coronal section

Name

• Sternoclavicular Ligament
• Ligamentum sternoclaviculare anterius
• Ligamentum sternoclaviculare posterius

General

• Ligaments which connect the clavicle to the sternum
• Provides direct stability to the sternoclavicular joint
• Provides indirect stability to the shoulder girdle and shoulder joint

Anterior Sternoclavicular Ligament

• Extends from the front of the clavicle to the front of the manubrium
• Covered by the sternal portion of sternocleidomastoid muscle

Posterior Sternoclavicular Ligament

• Extends from the posterior clavicle to the posterior manubrium
• It is supported posteriorly by Sternohyoid and Sternothyroid

Function

• Prevents dislocation of the clavicle from the sternum
• Reduces excessive movement of the joint
• Supports the shoulder girdle

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Clinical Significance

• Sternoclavicular Arthritis
• Sternoclavicular Joint Pain
• Sternoclavicular Joint Dislocation

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See Also

• Shoulder Pain Main
• Shoulder Anatomy Main
• Physical Exam Shoulder

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