Pectoral girdle

Pectoral Girdle

The Pectoral Girdle (pronunciation: /ˈpektərəl ˈgərdl/), also known as the shoulder girdle, is a set of bones in the appendicular skeleton which connects to the arm on each side. In humans, it consists of the clavicle and scapula.

Etymology

The term "Pectoral" is derived from the Latin word "pectus" which means chest, and "Girdle" from the Old English "gyrdel", meaning belt. Hence, the term "Pectoral Girdle" refers to the belt of bones around the chest.

Structure

The pectoral girdle is composed of two identical halves. Each half consists of a clavicle (collar bone) and a scapula (shoulder blade). The clavicle is a slender, S-shaped bone that connects the arm to the body (trunk), located directly above the first rib. The scapula is a large, flat bone situated in the dorsal part of the thorax.

Function

The primary function of the pectoral girdle is to provide attachment points for the numerous muscles that allow the shoulder and elbow joints to move. It also helps in the movement of the upper limb and allows for a wide range of motion.

Related Terms

Clavicle: Also known as the collar bone, it is a long bone that serves as a strut between the shoulder blade and the sternum or breastbone.
Scapula: Also known as the shoulder blade, it is the bone that connects the humerus (upper arm bone) with the clavicle (collar bone).
Humerus: The bone of the upper arm or forelimb, forming joints at the shoulder and the elbow.
Sternum: Also known as the breastbone, it is a long flat bone located in the center of the chest.