Anterior Sternoclavicular Ligament

Anterior Sternoclavicular Ligament: Anatomical Description and Role

The anterior sternoclavicular ligament (lat. ligamentum sternoclaviculare anterius, abbreviated PNA) is an important structure in the shoulder girdle. It connects the collarbone (clavicula) to the sternum (sternum) and performs a number of important functions, providing stability and support to this connection.

Anatomically, the PNA ligament is a short and dense ligament that lies anterior to the collarbone and connects to the first rib of the sternum and the manubrium (upper part of the sternum). It forms one of three ligaments that hold the collarbone in position and prevent excessive mobility.

The functions of the anterior sternoclavicular ligament are associated with maintaining stability of the shoulder girdle and ensuring optimal function of the upper limb. It plays a key role in transmitting force and movement between the sternum and collarbone, especially when raising and lowering the shoulder. The PNA ligament also helps prevent excessive forward movement of the clavicle and keeps it in the correct position relative to the sternum.

It should be noted that the anterior sternoclavicular ligament can be subject to various injuries, especially with injuries to the shoulder girdle or sports injuries. Sprains, tears, or injuries to the PNA ligament can lead to shoulder instability and functional limitations in the shoulder area.

To diagnose and treat injuries to the anterior sternoclavicular ligament, you should consult a qualified medical professional. Typically, if an injury or injury occurs, a physical examination, additional testing (such as an X-ray or MRI), and appropriate therapy, including conservative treatment or surgery, may be required.

In conclusion, the sternoclavicular anterior (PNA) ligament is an important structure in the shoulder girdle, providing stability and support to the connection between the sternum and clavicle. Its role in maintaining normal shoulder function is essential for optimal function of the upper extremity. Injuries to the PNA ligament can cause problems, so if an injury occurs, it is recommended to see a doctor for appropriate medical care.



The sternoclavicular ligament is a fairly dense and wide connection between the sternum and the collarbone. It is uniquely positioned to protect the central part of the chest from damage. This ligament allows the pectoral muscles to work more efficiently, which is very important for the normal functioning of the respiratory system.

Formation or damage to the sternoclavicular ligament can lead to breathing problems and cause cardiovascular problems. That is why diagnosis and treatment must be organized to detect such problems early and effectively eliminate them.

The anterior sternoclavicular ligament is associated with the development of degenerative processes, in particular osteoarthritis and ligamentosis. These changes in the ligament can occur due to factors such as injury, physical inactivity, heavy lifting, and older age. Often, chest pain is a consequence of not only problems of the sternum itself, but also of the intrathoracic lymph nodes.

The presence of such a ligament may have a certain significance for the functioning of the ulnar nerve of the shoulder joint. It protects the elbow from compression and provides stability and maintenance of joint joints during work.

Sternoclavicular absence is a medical condition that results from damage to the anterior sternoclavicular ligament and presents with a variety of symptoms. Patients with the absence of a ligament are at risk for the development of hyperextensions and other injuries to the sternum area - dysfunction of the respiratory and cardiovascular systems, obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, etc. Bends and rotations of the shoulder cause tension or stress in the sternal key. ligaments In clinical studies, it was found that stretching and inflammation of the sternal key. ligaments in addition to a ligament defect at the superior xiphoid joint may cause shoulder instability in some patients diagnosed with rib head neuralgia, even if a neurological lesion cannot be causal