Pectoral Girdle: Description, Anatomy, Function, Diagram

What Is Pectoral Girdle?

The pectoral girdle, also known as the shoulder girdle, is composed of clavicles and scapulae. The structure it forms provides for attaching the upper limbs to the trunk. Thus, it becomes a vital part of human anatomy that provides attachments for muscles to facilitate arm movements and ranges of motion required for activities of the upper limbs. For activities that involve arm and shoulder mobility, what is essential is merely the basic structure of the pectoral girdle, providing freedom for movement in all directions.

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This Story also Contains

1. What Is Pectoral Girdle?
2. Anatomy Of The Pectoral Girdle
3. Joints of the Pectoral Girdle
4. Muscles That Articulate At The Pectoral Girdle
5. Nerve Supply To The Pectoral Girdle
6. Blood Supply To The Pectoral Girdle
7. Biomechanics Of The Pectoral Girdle
8. Common Disorders And Injuries
9. Recommended Video On ‘Pectoral Girdle’

Anatomy Of The Pectoral Girdle

The pectoral girdle has two general bones. These are:

Clavicle (Collarbone)

• S-shaped bone between the sternum and the scapula.

• Acts as a strut to hold the scapula in place, thereby providing for movement of the arm.

• Common Injuries: Fractures; most commonly as the result of falls or direct blows.

Scapula (Shoulder Blade)

• Flat, triangular bone on the posteri¬or side of the ribcage.

• Offer attachment points for a good number of muscles involved actively in the movements of the arm.

• Common Injuries: Dislocations.

Diagram: Pectoral Girdle

Joints of the Pectoral Girdle

The joints of the pectoral girdle include:

Sternoclavicular Joint

• Synovial articulation between the sternum and clavicle.

• Allow swinging motion of the clavicle in multiple planes.

Acromioclavicular Joint

• The articulation between the acromion of the scapula and the clavicle.

• It helps in the movement of the scapula, thus providing flexibility to the shoulder.

Glenohumeral (Shoulder) Joint

• Ball and socket joint between the scapula and the humerus.

• Allow for a large range of motion for the arm.

• Range of Movement: Flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, and rotation.

Muscles That Articulate At The Pectoral Girdle

Among the long list of muscles articulating at the pectoral girdle, one finds the following:

• Pectoralis major and minor

• Deltoid

• Trapezius

• Serratus Anterior

• Rhomboid Major and Minor

These muscles offer stability and maintenance of the position of the scapula and clavicle during upper limb movements.

Nerve Supply To The Pectoral Girdle

The nerve supply to the pectoral girdle allows muscle function and sensation. These include:

Major Nerves

• Brachial Plexus

• Suprascapular Nerve

• Axillary Nerve

• Long Thoracic Nerve

Blood Supply To The Pectoral Girdle

Blood supply to the pectoral girdle allows for the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the bones and muscles. These include:

Major Arteries

• Subclavian Artery

• Axillary Artery

• Brachial Artery

Biomechanics Of The Pectoral Girdle

The biomechanics of the pectoral girdle provide for complex motions around the upper limb:

• Flexion, Extension, Abduction, Adduction

• Rotation (Medial and Lateral)

• Role in activities like lifting, pushing, and pulling.

• Coordination between the muscles and joints in the pectoral girdle is essential for forming energetic and powerful movements.

Common Disorders And Injuries

The pectoral girdle is susceptible to various forms of disorders and injuries, which include:

Injuries

• Fractures of Clavicle: This is the most common type and is generally caused by falls or direct impacts.

• Dislocated Shoulders: Most commonly caused by trauma or through the excessive application of force excessively.

• Rotator Cuff Tears: Generally, this kind of injury occurs because of overuse or acute injury.

Disorders

• Shoulder Impingement Syndrome: It is essentially the compression of rotator cuff tendons.

• Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis): Stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint.

• Bursitis: The bursa becomes inflamed; this is usually the result of repetitive motion.

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