Massage Therapy Journal Spring 2025

Spring 2025 • 41

Sternoclavicular Joint Ligaments Name

Location

Function

Anterior sternoclavicular ligament (anterior capsular ligament) Posterior sternoclavicular ligament (posterior capsular ligament)

Spans the upper and anterior surface of the manubrium to the sternal end of the clavicle. Connects the posterior surface of the manubrium to the sternal end of the clavicle. Spans the upper part of the manubrium and connects to the sternal ends of both clavicles.

Stabilizes the joint and limits excessive superior movement. Contributes to anteroposterior stability. Limits upward movement of both clavicles. Provides added stability and limits excessive elevation of the lateral aspect of the clavicle.

Interclavicular ligament

Costoclavicular ligament (rhomboid ligament)

Extends from the cartilage of the first rib to the sternal end of the clavicle.

Range of motion

Joint

Movement

and adduction, and a slight rotation during arm and shoulder movements. The SC joint also has a fibrocartilaginous disc located inside the joint to aid in stabilizing and cushioning the joint. 9,10

Anteroposteriorly

70º

Sternoclavicular

Horizontal/ coronal plane

35°

Sternoclavicular Joint: Structure and Function

Acromioclavicular Joint: Structure and Function

The sternoclavicular (SC) joint is a synovial joint that connects the medial aspect of the clavicle with the manubrium of the sternum and is the only bony articulation between the shoulder complex and the axial skeleton. This joint is considered a saddle joint that allows for a small range of movement, including elevation and depression of the clavicle, abduction

The acromioclavicular (AC) joint is a significant joint in the shoulder complex and is located at the superior aspect of the shoulder where the lateral aspect of the clavicle articulates with the acromion process of the scapula. The AC joint allows for limited movement, primarily rotation and some gliding during shoulder movements. It plays a vital role in shoulder stability and helps with optimal function of the shoulder complex. 11

Acromioclavicular Joint Ligaments

Name

Location

Function

Acromioclavicular ligament (superior acromioclavicular ligament) Acromioclavicular ligament (inferior acromioclavicular ligament) Coracoclavicular ligament (conoid ligament) Coracoclavicular ligament (trapezoid ligament)

The superior part is thicker, stronger and spans between the acromion process of the scapula and the lateral end of the clavicle. The inferior part is thinner, weaker and spans between the acromion process of the scapula and the lateral end of the clavicle. Spans from the conoid tubercle on the inferior clavicle to the coracoid process of the scapula. Spans from the trapezoid line on the clavicle to the coracoid process of the scapula.

Strengthens the joint capsule and aids as the primary resistance to posterior movement and posterior axial rotation at the AC joint. Strengthens the joint capsule and assists as the primary resistance to posterior movement and posterior axial rotation at the AC joint. Limits superior movement of the AC joint and rotation of the scapula. It also provides longitudinal rotation of the clavicle during elevation of the scapula. Limits superior dislocation of the AC joint and rotation of the scapula. Provides longitudinal rotation of the clavicle during elevation of the scapula.

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