Costosternal

/ˌkɒstoʊˈstɜrnəl/ adjective

Definition

Relating to both the ribs and the sternum (breastbone); describing the joints or connections between these structures.

Etymology

From Latin costae 'ribs' plus sternum 'breastbone' (from Greek sternon). A direct anatomical term for the articulations where ribs connect to the central breastbone.

Kelly Says

Your costosternal joints let your rib cage expand when you breathe—without them you couldn't inflate your lungs, which is why arthritis in these joints causes chest pain and breathing difficulty that's sometimes mistaken for heart problems.

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