Learning Objectives
By the end of this section, you will be able to:
- Describe the bones that form the pectoral girdle
- List the functions of the pectoral girdle
Introduction to the Pectoral Girdle
The pectoral girdle plays a vital role in connecting the upper limbs to the axial skeleton, enabling a remarkable range of motion and supporting the dynamic functions of the arms and shoulders. Composed of the scapula (shoulder blade) and clavicle (collar bone), each girdle forms the structural foundation above the arms. As you explore this section, consider how the unique shapes and articulations of these bones contribute to both stability and mobility for the wide variety of movements we rely on every day.
Overview:
The clavicle, or collarbone, is a slender, S-shaped bone that acts as a strut between the sternum and scapula. It plays a key role in shoulder mobility and upper limb support.
Key Features:
- Shape: Long, curved like an “S”
- Medial End: Sternal end articulates with the manubrium of the sternum
- Lateral End: Acromial end connects with the acromion process of the scapula
- Function: Supports the shoulder and allows the arm to swing freely from the trunk
💡 Tip: Use the image to identify the sternal and acromial ends and observe the curvature.
🌐 Explore in 3D:
- 🔗 Sketchfab – Labeled Clavicle Model
View the clavicle in isolation with labeled anatomical features. 💡 Click each numbered item to reveal its name and description—perfect for self-quizzing! - 🔗 AnatomyZone – Clavicle View
Rotate and zoom to explore clavicle landmarks in context with the skeleton. 💡 Tip: Jump to page 5 of 6 to view muscle & ligament attachment sites and their relationships to the bone.
The scapula may be a thin, flat bone—but it plays a powerful role in shoulder movement and stability. In this section, you’ll explore its structure from multiple angles and connect key bony landmarks to muscle attachments and joint function.
Use the activities below to rotate, inspect, and compare the scapula in 3D with real bone views. Then, test your knowledge by identifying features and explaining their roles in shoulder mechanics.
Reference: Key Bony Landmarks
- Glenoid cavity (fossa): Forms the socket of the shoulder joint, articulating with the head of the humerus.
- Acromion process: Extends over the shoulder joint and connects with the clavicle, helping stabilize the joint from above.
- Coracoid process: Serves as an anchor point for ligaments and muscles that support the shoulder.
- Spine of the scapula: Provides attachment for stabilizing muscles like the trapezius and deltoid.
Find these bony landmarks on the images below. Take note of the other labelled aspects of the scapula so you are ready for the ⏱️Beat the Clock Challenge.
- 🔗 Sketchfab – Labeled Scapula Model
View the scapula in isolation with labeled anatomical features. 💡 Click each numbered item to reveal its name and description—perfect for self-quizzing! - 🔗 AnatomyZone – Scapula View
First, rotate and zoom to explore scapula landmarks in context with the skeleton. 💡 Tip: Go through each of the 5 pages to view its unique features in isolation. Remember to click on bones for identification & to take note of anterior and posterior landmarks as you rotate the bone.
Reinforce your recognition of key features by studying anterior and posterior views of the scapula using real bone images. These views help you recognize key features like the spine, acromion, and coracoid process before diving into interactive labeling.
💡 Label these images on your own using the 3D models and descriptions above as a guide. Prepare for the labelling challenges in the Test Your Knowledge section.
