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Sternoclavicular joint
Last reviewed: 07.07.2025
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The sternoclavicular joint (art. sternoclavicularis) is formed by the sternal end of the clavicle and the clavicular notch of the sternum. The articular surfaces are saddle-shaped in shape. Between them in the joint cavity there is an articular disc (discus articularis), which fuses with the joint capsule along the periphery. The joint capsule is strengthened by the anterior and posterior sternoclavicular ligaments (Iigg. sternoclavicularia anterius et posterius). Above the joint, above the jugular notch of the sternum, the interclavicular ligament (lig. interclaviculare) is stretched between the sternal ends of the clavicle. The joint is also strengthened by the extracapsular costoclavicular ligament (lig. costoclaviculare). It connects the lower surface of the sternal end of the clavicle and the upper surface of the 1st rib.
The presence of an articular disc in this joint and a relatively free joint capsule allow movements similar to those in a ball-and-socket joint. The following movements are possible in the sternoclavicular joint: raising and lowering the clavicle around the sagittal axis, moving the acromial end of the clavicle forward and backward relative to the vertical axis, and circular. The range of motion is limited by the ligaments that strengthen this joint.
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