Sternocostal Joints

articulationes sternocostales

The sternocostal joints connect the costal cartilages to the sternum, with the first rib forming a cartilaginous synchondrosis that is immobile, and ribs 2 through 7 forming small plane synovial joints with limited gliding. Costochondritis (Tietze syndrome when swollen) produces sternocostal junction pain that can closely mimic cardiac chest pain in its anterior location and reproduction by deep breathing and position.

Region: Chest

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Sternocostal joint pain (costochondritis) is one of the most common causes of chest pain presenting to emergency departments and must be distinguished from cardiac, pulmonary, and gastrointestinal causes. The diagnosis is confirmed by exact reproduction of the chest pain by direct pressure on the affected sternocostal joint. Costochondritis typically resolves within weeks to months without specific treatment beyond anti-inflammatories.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Costochondritis

Sternocostal joint inflammation producing anterior chest pain reproduced by direct palpation and breathing, managed with NSAIDs and reassurance after cardiac pathology is excluded.