The collarbone, or clavicle, is connected to the shoulder via ligaments that attach it to the shoulder blade (scapula).
Understanding the Connections
The connection between the collarbone and shoulder is crucial for shoulder stability and movement. Here's a breakdown:
Key Ligaments
- Acromioclavicular Ligament: This ligament connects the outer end of the clavicle (acromial end) to the acromion, a bony projection of the scapula. This is a direct connection and helps stabilize the joint.
- Coracoclavicular Ligament: This ligament attaches the clavicle to the coracoid process of the scapula. This ligament provides additional stability to the shoulder, further securing the clavicle.
| Ligament | Connects | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Acromioclavicular Ligament | Clavicle (acromial end) to the acromion | Stabilizes the clavicle to the acromion of the scapula |
| Coracoclavicular Ligament | Clavicle to the coracoid process of the scapula | Provides additional stability by securing the clavicle to the scapula |
These two ligaments work together to effectively connect and stabilize the collarbone to the shoulder blade, enabling a wide range of motion while maintaining shoulder joint integrity. These connections are necessary to move the shoulder joint.
