Sternum - Anatomy Pictures and Information Home > Skeletal System > Bones of the Chest and Upper Back > Sternum Sternum The sternum, commonly known as the breastbone, is a long, narrow flat bone that serves as the keystone of the rib cage and stabilizes the thoracic skeleton. Several muscles that move the arms, head, and neck have their origins on the sternum. It also protects several vital organs of the chest, such as the heart, aorta, vena cava, and thymus gland that are located just deep to the sternum. The sternum is located along the body’s midline in the anterior thoracic region just deep to the skin. It is a flat bone about six inches in length, around an inch wide, and only a fraction of an inch thick.... Move up/down/left/right: Click compass arrows Rotate image: Click and drag in any direction, anywhere in the frame Identify objects: Click on them in the image 2D Interactive 3D Rotate & Zoom Change Anatomical System Change View Angle Full Sternum Description [Continued from above] . . .

The sternum develops as three distinct parts: the manubrium, the body of the sternum (sometimes called the gladiolus), and the xiphoid process. The shape of the sternum looks somewhat like a sword pointing downwards, with the manubrium forming the handle, the body forming the blade, and the xiphoid process forming the tip. In fact, the name manubrium means “handle,” gladiolus means “sword,” and xiphoid means “sword-shaped.” The manubrium is the widest and most superior region of the sternum. It forms joints with the clavicles and the first and second pairs of ribs through their costal cartilages. The clavicles meet the manubrium at the concave clavicular notches to form the sternoclavicular joint, the only point of skeletal attachment between the pectoral girdle of the shoulder and the axial skeleton of the thorax. Slight indentations on the lateral sides of the manubrium provide attachment points for the costal cartilages of the ribs. At its inferior end, the manubrium meets the body of the sternum at the joint with the costal cartilage of the second ribs.

Here it forms the sternal angle, a slight posterior bend in the sternum that can be felt through the skin and serves as an important anatomical landmark in the medical profession. Several important muscles attach via tendons to the manubrium, including the sternocleidomastoid, pectoralis major, sternohyoid, and sternothyroid muscles. The body of the sternum is the longest region of the sternum and is roughly rectangular in shape. The costal cartilages of the second through tenth ribs connect to the body of the sternum to form the bulk of the rib cage. Just like in the manubrium, slight concave indentations in the lateral sides of the body of the sternum provide stronger attachment points for the costal cartilages to prevent rib separation. In addition, the powerful pectoralis major muscles that adduct and flex the humerus at the shoulder attach to the anterior surface of the body of the sternum and manubrium. The smallest and most inferior region of the sternum, the xiphoid process, begins life as a region of flexible hyaline cartilage attached to the end of the body of the sternum.

The xiphoid process slowly ossifies throughout childhood and adulthood until around age 40 when all of its cartilage is replaced by bone. Regardless of its degree of ossification, the xiphoid process serves as an important attachment point for the tendons of the diaphragm, rectus abdominis, and transverse abdominis muscles. Several undesired events can take place at the sternum. During open heart surgery, the sternum must be cut in half along its long axis to provide access to the heart. After surgery, the two halves of the sternum must be wired back together with stainless steel wire to prevent their separation. Any extreme stresses placed on the broken sternum after surgery, such as lifting heavy objects, can result in the wires cutting through the bony tissue and severely damaging the sternum. Another risk associated with the sternum is the fracturing of the xiphoid process during CPR, which can potentially lead to the xiphoid process breaking off and lodging into one of the delicate vital organs below it.

Prepared by Tim Taylor, Anatomy and Physiology Instructor Bones of the Chest and Upper Back Bones of the Chest and Upper Back Home > Skeletal System > Bones of the Chest and Upper Back Bones of the Chest and Upper Back The bones of the chest and upper back combine to form the strong, protective rib cage around the vital thoracic organs such as the heart and lungs. The rib cage also anchors the bones of the head, neck, shoulders, and arms to the trunk of the body. Powerful muscles that move the head and arms attach to these bones as well. The bones of the chest and their joints also support the upper body’s weight. Twelve pairs of ribs extend laterally and anteriorly from the thoracic vertebrae to meet at or near the sternum.... Move up/down/left/right: Click compass arrows Rotate image: Click and drag in any direction, anywhere in the frame Identify objects: Click on them in the image Bones of the Chest and Upper Back (Posterior View) Full Bones of the Chest and Upper Back Description [Continued from above] . . . The sternum is a thin, flat, blade-shaped bone that is commonly known as the breastbone.

Ribs are long, flat, curved bones no more than a centimeter or two in width and a few millimeters in depth. The seven superior pairs of ribs connect directly to the sternum via the costal cartilage and are collectively known as the true ribs. The five pairs of ribs inferior to the true ribs are considered to be false ribs because they do not connect directly to the sternum. Within the false ribs are a subgroup known as the floating ribs (pairs 11 and 12) that do not connect to the sternum at all and only form joints with the thoracic vertebrae. The ribs curl around the thorax to provide protection to the heart and lungs on all sides from external forces. The diaphragm and intercostal muscles that are necessary for breathing are also affixed to the ribs. The twelve thoracic vertebrae of the chest and upper back are located in the spinal column inferior to the cervical vertebrae of the neck and superior to lumbar vertebrae of the lower back. Thoracic vertebrae interlock tightly by overlapping their spinous processes, giving stability to the spine in this region.

Thoracic vertebrae are the only vertebrae that form joints with ribs; each pair of ribs is connected to one thoracic vertebra on its posterior end. The clavicle and scapula, known collectively as the pectoral girdle, attach to the axial skeleton at the sternum. The pectoral girdle bones move the shoulder joint in many different directions to improve the flexibility of the upper limbs. These bones and the muscles that move them allow you to elevate, depress, abduct, adduct, and rotate the shoulder joint to give the arms an extremely free range of motion. Prepared by Tim Taylor, Anatomy and Physiology Instructor finger bones. kneecap. breastbone. shinbone. Correct - BIOL - 1114K Finger bones. kneecap. breastbone. shinbone. correct SCHOOL View Full Document This is the end of the preview. Sign up to access the rest of the document. Unformatted text preview: finger bones. kneecap. breastbone. shinbone. Correct Feedback correct Incorrect Feedback incorrect Add Question Here Question 114 Multiple Choice Question The common name of the check bone is the Answer zygomatic bone.

finger bones. kneecap. breastbone. shinbone. Correct Feedback correct Incorrect Feedback incorrect Add Question Here Question 115 Multiple Choice Question The common name for the sternum is the Answer zygomatic bone. finger bones. kneecap. breastbone. shinbone. Correct Feedback correct Incorrect Feedback incorrect Add Question Here Question 116 Multiple Choice Question The common name of the tibia is the Answer zygomatic bone. finger bones. kneecap. breastbone. shinbone. Correct Feedback correct Incorrect Feedback incorrect Add Question Here Question 117 Multiple Choice Question The common name for the phalanges is the Answer zygomatic bone. finger bones. kneecap. breastbone. shinbone. Correct Feedback correct Incorrect Feedback incorrect Add Question Here Question 118 Multiple Choice Question The coracoid process is found on the Answer fibula. scapula. humerus. ulna. femur. Correct Feedback correct Incorrect Feedback incorrect Add Question Here Question 119 Multiple Choice Question The deltoid tuberosity is found on the Answer fibula. scapula. humerus. ulna. femur.

Correct Feedback correct Incorrect Feedback incorrect Add Question Here Question 120 Multiple Choice Question A styloid process is found on the Answer fibula. scapula. humerus. ulna. femur. Correct Feedback correct Incorrect Feedback incorrect Add Question Here Question 121 Multiple Choice Question The greater trochanter is found on the Answer fibula. scapula. humerus. ulna. femur. Correct Feedback correct Incorrect Feedback incorrect Add Question Here Question 122 Multiple Choice Question The lateral malleolus is part of the Answer fibula. scapula. humerus. ulna. femur. Correct Feedback correct Incorrect Feedback incorrect Add Question Here Question 123 Multiple Choice Question The olecranon process of the ulna is commonly known as the Answer collar bone. elbow. tail bone. hip bone. forehead. Correct Feedback correct Incorrect Feedback incorrect Add Question Here Question 124 Multiple Choice Question The frontal bone is known as the Answer collar bone. elbow. tail bone. hip bone. forehead. Correct Feedback correct Incorrect Feedback incorrect Add Question Here Question 125 Multiple Choice Question The coax is known as the Answer collar bone. elbow. tail bone.

hip bone. forehead. Correct Feedback correct Incorrect Feedback incorrect Add Question Here Question 126 Multiple Choice Question The coccyx is also called the Answer collar bone. elbow. tail bone. hip bone. forehead. Correct Feedback correct Incorrect Feedback incorrect Add Question Here Question 127 Multiple Choice Question The hyoid bone is part of the Answer axial skeleton.... COURSES > ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY:, 8/E- SEELEY > CONTROL PANEL > POOL MANAGER > POOL CA ch8 What is the Breast Bone? (with pictures) What is the Breast Bone? Last Modified Date: 18 December 2016 Copyright Protected: Adorable animal families that will make you "aww" The breast bone, also known as the sternum, is a long, flat bone located in the middle of the chest region of the human body. The bone is connected to the ribs by a flexible type of connective tissue called cartilage. The primary role of this bone is to protect the heart and lungs from any type of physical trauma . While a fracture of the sternum is not a common injury, it does sometimes happen.

When this occurs, prompt medical attention is necessary to gauge the extent of the damage and begin appropriate treatment. During certain types of thoracic surgery , or surgery relating to the organs found in the chest area of the body, it may be necessary for the surgeon to cut open the breast bone in order to reach the organs. This type of surgery is called cardiothoracic surgery , with the actual process of cutting open the sternum referred to as a median sternotomy . When a traumatic injury such as a car accident or sports injury results in a direct blow to the chest, it is possible for this bone to be fractured. If this type of injury is suspected, an immediate trip to the hospital is in order. Typically, x-rays will be ordered right away to verify the presence of a fracture. Since the sternum works to protect the vital organs found in the chest, tests will often be ordered to make sure there is no damage to the heart or lungs. Once a fracture has been confirmed and it has been determined the bone did its job by protecting the organs of the chest, a treatment plan can be devised.

Pain medications such as ibuprofen are often prescribed in order to help reduce the amount of swelling and inflammation as well as provide some level of pain relief . Doctors once bandaged the fractured sternum tightly in order to reduce movement while healing. However, this is no longer common practice, as it is believed the bone heals more quickly and completely if left unhindered, allowing more room for efficient breathing. The patient should rest as much as possible during the first two weeks following a breast bone injury. Afterward, activity may be slowly increased as long as the patient does not experience excruciating pain. It typically takes the body several weeks to heal completely from this type of injury, so it is important to not try to resume normal activity levels before the body is ready. Ad Causes of Breast Bone Pain (Sternum) | Healthhype.com Causes of Breast Bone Pain (Sternum) Tweet The breast bone, also known as the sternum, is a flat bone located in the middle of the thorax (chest) and serves two important functions in the body.

Firstly, the breast bone protects the vital organs lying behind it, primarily the heart and airways, and secondly, it serves as a central point where the ribs and shoulder bones (clavicle) connect and articulate. The breast bone can be divided into three distinct parts : Manubrium Body Xiphoid process Breast bone pain is a common symptom that is experienced at frequent intervals in life and may be harmless in most cases. However, persistent pain or pain that is increasing in intensity or frequency, should be investigated by a medical doctor. Breast bone pain is usually experienced and described as pain in the bone, under the breast bone or to the side of the bone. Pain may range from sharp and stabbing sensations to mild soreness or a bruised feeling. In some cases there are reports of a popping sternum which is a clicking or cracking noise from the breastbone joints that may be present along with pain, tenderness and swelling. Although referred to as the breast bone, the sternum does not lie under the breast but rather in between the breast, extending above (manubrium) and through the cleavage in women.

Causes of Breast Bone Pain Heartburn or reflux is the most common cause of a burning pain along and under the breast bone as a result of esophagitis . Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) may also result in episodes of severe sharp pains in the chest and is often mistaken for a myocardial infarction (heart attack) during these episodes. Other types of esophagitis may also cause breastbone pain. Fractures of the sternum is rare but may occur in car accident injuries due to the impact with the steering wheel. Joint pain at the points where the shoulder bone (1) and ribs (2) articulate with the breast bone can be due to inflammatory joint disorders like arthritis although this is uncommon. More commonly, joint pain may be due to strain during impact or when exercising, specifically weight lifting. Joint pain is usually felt on either side of the breast bone. Costochondritis and Tietze’s syndrome are two common causes of breastbone pain due to the inflammation of the costal cartilage and joint. Muscle pain, specifically of the pectoral muscles, may cause breast bone pain as they attach at this site.

Muscle strain is the most common cause and results typically in a bruised or sore pain, often described as an ache. The intercostal muscles, which lie between the ribs, may also cause breast bone pain and these muscles may get strained during constant deep and forced breathing, particularly in respiratory disorders like emphysema and asthma. Cardiac conditions like coronary artery disease, angina, myocardial infarction (heart attack), myocarditis and pericarditis are serious causes of pain under the breast bone. Respiratory causes of breast bone pain include bronchitis , bronchiectasis and tracheitis . Tuberculosis and pneumonia may also cause pain under the breast bone although these conditions usually affect the sides of the chest around the area of the lungs. Psychological conditions like panic and anxiety attacks may cause a perceived pain under the breast bone which may be related to an increased heart rate (palpitations), heartburn or psychogenic pain (perceived pain). Surgery of the organs within the thoracic (chest cavity) may require separation of the bones of the chest. Cardiothoracis or open heart surgery may be the cause of long term pain in or on the sides of the breast bone even after the wounds heal.

Other conditions, which are not common causes of breast bone pain, may include acute pancreatitis, hiatal hernia, stomach ulcers and causes of excessive belching or upper middle abdominal pain . Cancer of the lungs, airways, lung abscess and sarcoidosis may also cause breast bone pain. Related Questions and Answers Pain in the Center of the Chest – Causes and Symptoms Please note that any information or feedback on this website is not intended to replace a consultation with a health care professional and will not constitute a medical diagnosis. By using this website and the comment service you agree to abide by the comment terms and conditions as outlined on this page → nelly Hey doc, am a female of 27 yrs old, i recently had an ESR and FBC with results as follows- Hb(10.8g/100ml), PCV(37.4%), Mcv(81.4fi), McHc(28.8g/dl), platelet(304,000ui), WBC(4100ui), Neutrophil(45.6%), Lymphocyte(40.8%), Others(13.6%).

i had this test done bcos for the past 7month now, i have been having a left sided chest pain on exhalation(had 2 x-rays, 3 ECGs and an ECHO, all came out Normal) also, i have been having this constant malaised feeling for about 4months and the whole of my left chest is twitching or undergoing some kind of painless spasms as well as my left eye for about 4 months now too and so decided to run these tests. Is the result normal? People say the WBC is low, what could cause this? Dr. Chris Hi Jenny It depends on what is causing this pain. It could be related to the chest wall and could be muscular strain, a bruise or even costochondritis. Or it may be deeper lying – in your age group you should consider pleuritis (inflammation of the lining around the lungs) or even pericarditis (inflammation of the lining around the heart). This can occur if you had a respiratory tract infection recently. YES, you should see a doctor to have it assessed. Dr. Chris Hi Jenny In your age group, chest wall problems are a more common cause of this type of pain.

Although the pain is characteristic of pleuritis (inflammation of the lining around the lungs) or even pericarditis (lining around the heart), it is uncommon for your age unless you recently had an infection. However, you have not experienced any respiratory or related symptoms. You should still see your doctor to exclude these serious causes and take note of whether the pain occurs with certain movements, especially arm movements, and report this to your doctor. A chest x-ray may be necessary as a starting point. Dr. Chris Hi Nelly We don’t respond to questions regarding the evaluation of lab tests results as many patients attempt to “self-diagnose” themselves without seeing a doctor. This can have dire consequences and become a medicolegal issue in the long run. You should not be taking advice from”people” and seek professional medical help. Discuss your blood tests with your doctor and given your symptoms, you should be consulting with a specialist physician at this point. janice I Barnes I spit up daily a thick dark gray, greemish phlegm ball everyday which is difficult to spit and often gets stuck in my throat, until I can get rid of it.

It really comes up fast after I have eaten at the end of the day or if I really talk a lot for a lengthy time. It does interfere with my breathing, until I have released it. What is this? (I am 58 yrs. old, a jogger since 18 and very slim. Have IBS and colitis badly.) Karla Hi my name is karla n I’m 21 have 2 kids. I have been gettin chest pains the last past 4 days on the left side right next to my breast it will come really sharp n than it will go away. Help pls!!! Kylie Dear Doctor, I am a 15 year old girl with pain in my sternum. It started earlier in the day and gradually grew to a moderate dull pain. It affects my sternum and upper spine. Light pressure on my sternum brings me to tears, breathing is really difficult and it hurts so does eating and drinking. Pain medication isn’t working and I don’t really know what I should do. HealthHype Hi Kylie. It is very concerning that then pain is so intense that it can be triggered with even light pressure. Furthermore the difficulty breathing, eating and drinking is also a worry.

Kylie, this could be Tietze’s syndrome which is more often seen in young people, particularly female. But it could also be due to an injury which may have led to fractured rib and son. You need to speak to your parents ASAP and see a doctor. The intensity of the pain you describe and breathing/eating issues means that this cannot be left unattended. We cannot comment on other treatment measures as the cause needs to diagnosed by a medical professional who can deal with you face-to-face. Kylie Dear Doctor, After I got your message I convinced my mother to take me to the doctor immediately. My doctor said that I was must likely having reflux and should take ranitidine and pain pills then come back in two weeks. I would like to know if reflux can cause such issues, because the pain keeps getting worse. HealthHype Hi Kylie. We would not like to second guess your doctor or any other health care professional as he/she has seen you in person and knows your case. Yes, reflux is a possible cause as the article mentions above. As we said previously, pain that brings you to tears and there is difficulty breathing is a concern.

Rather follow your doctor’s advice and if you are feeling uncertain then seek a second opinion from another doctor. Kylie Dear Doctor, I listen to my doctors advice like you told me too. I didn’t work. Around 1:30 pm I could barely breath and what breaths a did get were short and painful. the pain in my chest instead of being the dull pain from yesterday turned into a sharp stabbing-like pain. The area is much more tender now and hurts very bad. Pain killers aren’t doing anything to help to. HealthHype Hi Kylie. We are very limited in how much further we can advise you. This is an online platform that guides readers on possible solutions. We cannot make a diagnosis, prescribe a treatment or override the advice or judgement of the medical professional you are seeing. Commenting any further could open us up to liability. Therefore we strongly advise that if you are not experiencing any relief of symptoms and feel your doctor’s approach was inadequate then seek a second opinion. Do not delay if your symptoms are getting worse – go to the ER at your local hospital. Kaylie Hi, I am a 17 yr old female. I have this hard spot on my sternum right in between my breasts.

This lump comes and goes . It is hard and usually painful. What could cause this? diala Hi, Im a 21 years old female. I’ve been experiencing pain in a bone in my chest in the right side but the bone isn’t in the middle its like between the upper middle and the right of my chest. when i touch it, it hurts and i can feel that its infected. Other than that lately i’ve been experiencing a rash in the upper area of my chest, and around my mouth and redness around my nose, and i have a feeling that my hair isn’t as thick as it was! help me please HealthHype Hi Diala. It is difficult to say whether all these symptoms (chest pain, face rash and thinning hair) are related or not. However, it is a possibility that a systemic condition may be responsible and you have to see a doctor for this as soon as possible. Shingles is one possibility that needs to be considered here. However, there are a host of different conditions, particularly skin diseases, that could be causing these symptoms. It is possible that the chest pain has nothing to do with bone but is rather just a skin problem. It is advisable that you see a doctor ASAP.

Brittany Streeter Hi, I’m 22 years old, and over the past 3 weeks I’ve been experiencing dull pain above my right breast and around my sternum area when swallowing food or hiccuping. Also, sometimes it just aches in general, but only when I’ve been outside in the cold and shivering. A couple days before Christmas, I had a couple ski falls, which I didn’t think much of, but in both cases my arms were pulled pretty violently uphill while my legs were being pulled downhill (my skis didn’t pop off). A couple weeks after that (January 10), I went bouldering with my family, It was after the bouldering that I noticed the dull pain when swallowing food or hiccuping. Is it likely that I have some irritation/inflammation? HealthHype Hi Brittany. Yes, it is very likely that some soft tissue injury related to your falls could be causing these symptoms. Given your age you are not usually in the high risk group for some of the more serious conditions that may be attributed to these symptoms. This is not to say that the injuries that you have sustained are not serious.

Hopefully you did see a doctor after your falls, had an x-ray and started anti-inflammatory drugs shortly thereafter to minimize the inflammation and discomfort. If not, then you should see your doctor ASAP. Brittany Streeter I did got to my doctor, had a chest x-ray (which was normal) and have been taking anti-inflammatories (ibuprofen). The frequency and intensity seems to be improving. I still feel the discomfort on occasion. I’ve been pretty anxious about it, so now I’m hypersensitive to everything I feel when swallowing. Sometimes it feels uncomfortable around the throat area when swallowing, but I’m not sure if it’s simply because I’m paying attention to it. My husband says that swallowing isn’t necessarily comfortable, but unless he’s focused on the motion that he doesn’t feel any discomfort. What would you say swallowing is supposed to feel like? I also have neck pain (around the sternocleidomastoid) area particularly when in bed. I’m a stomach sleeper, I also have a forward head posture and rounded shoulders from that. I often get an aching feel from my neck area to my ears.

Is it possible to feel some “deep throat” discomfort when swallowing if one has tight and sore sternocleidomastoids? Interestingly, I learned that those muscles also connect to the sternum…wonder if it’s related to my chest discomfort? Not sure how I should proceed. Not sure if I’m overreacting or I should be checked out further. I’ve also read about hyoid bone syndrome… julie Hi, I have pain that starts at the start of my left breast all the way to end. The pain is under my breast when I seem to push in on this area. Had xray but found nothing with my ribs HealthHype Hi Julie. Hopefully you have consulted with a gynecologist as it may be a breast issue and not necessarily a bone problem. Pain on its own without any other symptom is difficult to interpret, especially on an online platform. You need to follow up with your doctor and then see a gynecologist. Hopefully you have been having your annual mammograms. Your doctor will be able to advise you further. Tammy Hi, I’m a 56 year old experiencing pain in my chest. I think it is in my 1st and 2nd ribs.

It only hurts upon movement and if I press on it. Yesterday the pain was in my sternum. Also, upon waking this morning, I had back and flank pain that went away after I was up and about. Not sure if they are related. (Looked at a urine sample: clear and no weird odor.) Any insights? Laugh Goblin HI Doctor, I am not sure if this forum is still active. But 3 days ago I was horse playing with my cousin and I hit my chest pretty hard a few times. Next day I noticed a swelling on my breast bone. Then the next day it felt bruised, and I could feel my heart beat. I noticed I felt myself gasping for a deeper breath, and pressure when breathing, and eating. I went to my DR for X-rays but the nurse called back the next day and said everything looks normal. I still feel discomfort. Both times I have visited this DR after being recommended by a friend he seemed a little impatient with me due to my hard of hearing. I found it difficult to ask him anything with out him losing his patients with me. He prescribed me some IBUPROFEN 800MG. Said it would help with pain and swelling.

But I was still left with questions that I did not want to hassle him with. I would like to know… If I just maybe bruised my chest? Are the symptoms I am feeling normal? Will it heal on it’s own? Should I take the IBUPROFEN even if I am not in pain?. I just feel discomfort in eating, and breathing and discomfort when I sleep, and sometimes a painless pinching feeling in the bruised area. HealthHype Hi Cora. We cannot answer the questions specific to your case because we are not overseeing your case. However, in general terms if the x-ray was clear then it is likely that this was soft tissue injury. It would explain most of the symptoms you are experiencing. Most injuries of this sort heal on its own over time but anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen are usually prescribed to aid with reducing the inflammation. But this may not necessarily be the issue in your case. Seek a second opinion to be sure. Laugh Goblin Alice Hi Dr I am 27 years old and I always sleep on my stomach and one night I woke up with pain in my sternum. It has been 3 days the pain hasn’t gotten worse but it hasn’t significantly improved either.

It hurts when i stretch or lean forward or backwards. Please let me know of any advice or hypotheses. Thanks Greta Hi, I’m an active 22 year old and have been experiencing some pain in my chest for a few days–mainly middle right side. The pain isn’t unbearable, but it does get a bit worse with certain movements. When I am laying down, it gets hot on the site. I have been doing more push-ups than usual right before the pain started. But, my hubby and I were also wrestling around and he put his weight on my chest before the pain started as well. What could this be? Is it from the work out, or did my hubby accidentally mess something up? Greta I’m an active 22 year old and have been experiencing some pain in my chest for a few days–mainly middle right side. The pain isn’t unbearable, but it does get a bit worse with certain movements. When I am laying down, it gets hot on the site. I have been doing more push-ups than usual right before the pain started. But, my hubby and I were also wrestling around and he put his weight on my chest before the pain started as well. What could this be?

Is it from the work out, or did my hubby accidentally mess something up? HealthHype Hi Alice. This is possibly just musculoskeletal where there is pressure being placed on the chest wall for long hours since you sleep on your abdomen. There are other possibilities like acid reflux which will worsen by your sleeping position. Speak to your doctor about it if it hasn’t resolved as yet and see if it still occurs when you change sleeping position. It is difficult to say for sure through an online platform but rather be safe than sorry and have it investigated by a medical professional. Mandie Saunders I am a 35 year old woman and have had pain in my sternum (right in the middle of my chest) for a four or five days now it hurts if it gets pushed on and I sneezed a few min ago and felt like i was getting kicked from the inside out. Taylor HealthHype: I have a question that is of concern. Directly at the line in the middle of my chest where your cleavage would start is extremely tender to the touch. It feels almost as if it is bruised inside it. I am confused because it’s not necessarily my chest or my breast or what? I am starting to get worried about it.

Any suggestions? Prem Dhungyel Hi Doctor, I am Prem Dhungyel from Bhutan. I have been suffering from chest pain for the last 14 years and it never gets well. The main pain is felt in the left chest particularly the pain in bones while touching around the breast. It also gives difficulty in breathing and I get lots of pain while I am hungry. Please can you suggest me what actually it means. I did lots of test for heart attacks like CT scan, ECG, X-ray and all and Doctors found that the heart is in perfect condition. micki Hi, I am 40 years old. I have been sick with I guess it’s a cold, nasal drainage and clogging, had a sore throat for the first 2 days, I cough up a little phlegm here and there. Sometimes it’s kind of brown. But it doesn’t feel like it’s in my lungs, but I have pain in my sternum more so to the left but still in the middle. It hurts when I move around and sometimes if I breathe deeply. It feels more like the bone is bruised or something.

So I was wondering is it because I’m sick and should I wait until I get over my cold and see if it goes away or should I see someone now. I’ve been sick for 6 days it started hurting the second day and is still bothersome. It’s more annoying than anything. But I am getting concerned. I am feeling better but not over it yet. Brandi I’m 22 have 1 kid I woke up in the night and noticed that between my breast I have a swollen spot more on the left side close to my breast on the left?? Does anybody know what this could be Rochelle Dear doctor, my name is Rochelle I’m 22 years old and I’ve been experiencing moderate to severe cramps in my chest ever since I was a toddler (according to my mom) and so far no doctor that I went to has come to make a diagnosis. I also have a burning sensation in the middle of my chest and sometimes there’s a itching under my ribcage as well. The itching comes and goes, so does the cramping and sometimes the cramping gets so severe that I can hardly take a breathe. Please help cause I don’t know what else to do.

Pain medication doesn’t work either because I’m allergic HealthHype HI Brandi. There are many possible causes but this could be a swollen lymph node. You should definitely have this checked up as soon as possible. Speak to your doctor. Further investigation may be necessary to conclusively identify the underlying cause. It may not be anything serious but it is better to have it checked as early as possible. Melissa Orr I am a 48 yr old female and have a swelling or lump on the xiphoid process it is sore and tender to the touch. My doctor wants me to have a mammogram but why a mammogram if this soreness is on my sternum? Should I b concerned? I thought maybe an xrays or something would be the case not mammogram José Felicié doctor? Mi name is José and i am 18 years old. Today i was wrestling with a friend for fun on a trampoline. During this my friend landed on my chest with his shoulder. I started feeling a dull pain on my chest when i breath and move my left arm too much. It isnt unbearable. And when I touch the area i dont feel very sore. But when i apply presure it causes the dull pain.

This pain happens at both my back and chest. I am hoping that it will go away tomorrow. I dont believe it was a fracture because it isnt that painfull. (Ive never experienced a broken bone before either.) Please. Is there anyway to treat this? If the pain doesnt get better by tomorrow i wll go to a doctor. Jade Hi, I’m a 22 year old female. I don’t quite know if it’s anything serious but I’ve woken up this morning and the bones above my breasts along my chest are very tender to touch. Clothing and the slightest amount of pressure touching certain areas are very painful. I can’t recall injuring myself to the extent the pain is. I was wondering if the pain will subside or whether I need to go to my doctors to be checked over? HealthHype Hi Jade. In situations like these, with such severe tenderness, you should definitely consult with a doctor. Hopefully by now you have done so. Sudden onset of pain and tenderness is often associated with an injury and sometimes and infection but it could also be due to other conditions. The lack of any preceding injury does not mean that it may still not be a serious problem.

Hopefully this is not the situation in your case. rose For the past year I have gone to the doctors for shoulder blade pain and also breast pain. When I breathe some part along my shoulder blade it pops. I would say the popping goes through my ribs 1-6, sometimes even my neck. It is very painful or it is a highly unpleasant feeling. This happens throughout the whole day, everyday, more than 17 times of popping ,and I have no control of it. I had an X-ray done and the doctors said it was normal. Then they gave me therapy and they blamed it on my bad posture. 2 weeks later, there was no improvement on the popping even with the practice of “good posture”. I cannot sleep at night and it is driving me crazy. What should I do? Should I demand an MRI or a CT Scan? What is the Sternum? (with pictures) What is the Sternum? Last Modified Date: 14 January 2017 Copyright Protected: These 10 facts about space will blow your mind The sternum, also known as the breastbone, is the bone located in the center of the chest where the upper ribs converge.

It protects the heart and lungs from injury and helps to stabilize the structure of the ribcage. It is found in most vertebrates — exceptions include fish, snakes, and turtles. It takes different forms in different species; the information in this article pertains to the form it takes in humans. In the human embryo, the sternum first appears as two bands of cartilage which fuse in the center of the chest. This fused band gives rise to six bones, called sternabrae, that gradually combine to become the adult breastbone. The process continues throughout childhood, and may not be complete until middle or even old age. Fusion begins at the top of the bone and proceeds downward. A long, flat bone shaped like the letter "T," the sternum is comprised of three parts. The first sternabra becomes the manubrium , the top part of the bone which forms the horizontal stroke of the "T." The manubrium is roughly diamond-shaped. It is wider at the top, where it connects to the collarbone, and narrower at the bottom. The next four sternabrae form the middle and longest portion, called the sternal body or gladiolus.

This piece forms most of the vertical stroke of the "T." The gladiolus is marked by three horizontal ridges on its front and back surfaces. It connects to the first seven pairs of ribs in humans. A small piece called the xiphoid process connects to the bottom of the gladiolus and completes the bone. It is formed from the last sternabra and is usually the last piece to fuse. In some adults it never becomes fully fused, remaining attached to the rest of the bone by a piece of cartilage. It is thin, long, and occasionally bifurcated. Accidental injuries to the sternum are rare. When they do occur, they are most often a result of blunt force trauma , as in an automobile accident. Fracture is usually associated with damage to the heart, lungs, and other organs. Incorrectly performed CPR sometimes causes the xiphoid process to break off, which may result in damage to the diaphragm . In order to perform surgery on organs in the chest cavity, it is often necessary to deliberately fracture the sternum. The procedure is called a median sternotomy . It involves cutting the bone from top to bottom with an oscillating saw and then pulling the two halves apart.

After surgery, the bone will heal over the course of several weeks, just like any other broken bone. Ad Definition of Breast bone Definition of Breast bone Surprising Benefits of Sex Slideshow Breast bone: Familiar name for the sternum, the long flat bone in the middle of the front of the chest. The sternum consists of three portions: the manubrium (the upper segment of the sternum, a flattened, roughly triangular bone), the corpus or body of the sternum, and the xiphoid process (the little tail of the sternum than points down). These three portions of the sternum arise as separate bones and may fuse partially or completely with one another. The sternum articulates (makes contact) with the cartilages of the first seven ribs and the clavicles (the collar bones) to form the middle portion of the anterior front wall of the thorax. Last Editorial Review: 5/13/2016 Sternum Anatomy Follow Us Sternum Anatomy This article will talk about the anatomy of the sternum, and also understand the thorax region of the human body. Have a look...

Advertisement A few of the most vital organs of the human body, the human heart and the lungs, are located in the thoracic region. This region is protected by the mild cone-shaped and a slightly flexible set of bones called the ribcage. There are 12 pairs of ribs, thoracic vertebra, costal cartilage, and the anteriorly placed sternum. The functions of the ribcage consists of protecting of the visceral organs, enclosing the thoracic visceral organs, and help in the general mechanism by aiding the breathing process. The ribcage helps provide support to the upper body as well as the pectoral girdle. Anatomy of the Sternum So, where is the breastbone located? The breastbone/sternum anatomy is not very complicated to understand. The sternum is an elongated long bone that looks like a capital T. On an average, the sternum is about 17 cm in length. It is a flat bone that is divided into three parts―the manubrium, sternum body (gladiolus), and the xiphoid process. It is located in the middle of the thorax and between two sets of ribs.

Initially, the sternum is divided into 3 regions, called the sternebra. When you see the sternum, the upper end supports the clavicles, that is, the collar bones. The top part of sternum is connected to the Sternocleidomastoid muscle. As we move downward, it gets divided into the three parts, that have been mentioned above. Manubrium The word manubrium in Latin means a handle. It is broad, upper part of the sternum that is located ventrally with a quadrangular shape. It articulates with the clavicles and the first two ribs. It is wide superiorly and narrower inferiorly. Body of the Sternum (Gladiolus) The body of sternum or gladiolus is longer, narrower and thinner than the manubrium. It is widest towards the lower end. The anterior surface of sternum is nearly flat and directed upward and forward due to three transverse ridges. At the sternal origin of Pectoralis major, there are attachments on either side of this bone. On the posterior side, the bone is slightly concave and is also marked by transverse lines.

These lines are less distinct and the Transversus thoracis originates from either sides. The superior border of the bone is oval, articulating with the manubrium. The sternal angle is formed at the junction of the two bones. The inferior border is narrow articulating with the xiphoid process. The lateral border consists of articular depressions, where the corresponding cartilages from the third, fourth, fifth, and sixth ribs are received. At the inferior angle, there is a small facet that forms a notch for the seventh rib cartilage. Xiphoid Process The xiphoid process is a small cartilaginous process that is ossified in adults. It forms a fibrous joint with the body of sternum by the age of 15 to 29 years. There is natural bifurcation of the xiphoid process and sometimes are perforated. The anatomy of the sternum shows that it articulates with the clavicle on either side and the upper seven costal cartilages. Fracture of the sternum is a very uncommon condition. It occurs due to trauma from a car accident or repeated punches or beatings, called 'sternum punches'.

These punches are very common in sports like football and rugby. A sternum fracture is called a comminuted fracture, and is associated with pulmonary contusions and long tissue bruising. The sternum is the medical name for the commonly known breastbone. It helps in connecting the ribs to the cartilages, and its primary function includes protection of the heart, lungs, and blood vessels in the chest from injury. Vascular tissues make up the sternum, with only a thin layer of bone present outside the tissue. Batul Nafisa Baxamusa Bone Marrow Biopsy | Johns Hopkins Medicine Health Library There may be other reasons for your healthcare provider to recommend a bone marrow biopsy. What are the risks of a bone marrow biopsy? As with any procedure, problems can occur. Some possible complications may include: Bruising and discomfort at the biopsy site Prolonged bleeding from the biopsy site Infection near the biopsy site You may have other risks that are unique to you. Be sure to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider before the procedure. How do I get ready for a bone marrow biopsy? Your healthcare provider will explain the procedure to you. Ask him or her any questions you have.

You may be asked to sign a consent form that gives permission for the procedure. Read the form carefully and ask questions if anything is not clear. Tell your provider if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant. Tell your provider if you are sensitive to or are allergic to any medicines, latex, tape, and anesthesia medicines (local and general). Tell your provider about all the medicines you take. This includes both over-the-counter and prescription medicines. It also includes vitamins, herbs, and other supplements. Tell your provider if you have a history of bleeding disorders. Let your provider know if you are taking any blood-thinning medicines, aspirin, ibuprofen, or other medicines that affect blood clotting. You may need to stop taking these medicines before the procedure. You may be asked not to eat for several hours before to the procedure. This often means no food or drink after midnight. You may receive a medicine (a sedative) to help you relax before the biopsy. The sedative may make you drowsy. So you will need to have someone drive you home. Your healthcare provider may have other instructions for you based on your medical condition. What happens during a bone marrow biopsy? A bone marrow biopsy may be done on an outpatient basis.

This means you go home the same day. Or you may stay in a hospital. Procedures may vary depending on your condition and your provider’s practices. A bone marrow biopsy is often done using a pelvic bone, but another bone (such as the breastbone) may be used. In a child, a leg bone or a bone in the spine (vertebra) may be used. Generally, a bone marrow biopsy follows this process: You will be asked to remove clothing and may be given a gown to wear. Your position may vary depending on the bone that is used. You may be asked to lie on your side or your stomach if the pelvis bone is used. During the procedure, you will need to lie as still as possible. The skin over the biopsy site will be cleaned with a sterile (antiseptic) solution. You will feel a needle stick and a brief sting as the provider injects a local anesthetic to numb the area. A small cut (incision) may be made over the biopsy site. The biopsy needle will be inserted through the bone and into the bone marrow. A bone marrow aspiration is usually done first. The provider will use a syringe to pull a small liquid sample of the bone marrow cells through the needle.

It is common to feel pressure as the needle is pressed into your bone. You will have a pulling feeling when the marrow is removed. The provider will remove a small, solid piece of bone marrow using a special hollow needle. This is called a core biopsy. The biopsy needle will be removed. Firm pressure will be applied to the biopsy site for a few minutes, until the bleeding has stopped. A sterile bandage or dressing will be applied. The bone marrow samples will be sent to the lab for exam. What happens after a bone marrow biopsy? Once you are home, it is important to keep the biopsy area clean and dry. Your healthcare provider will give you specific bathing instructions. Leave the bandage in place for as long as directed by your provider. This is often until the next day. Take a pain reliever as recommended by your provider. Aspirin or other pain medicines may raise your risk of bleeding. Be sure to take only medicines your healthcare provider has approved. Call your provider if you have any of the following: Fever Redness, swelling, bleeding, or other drainage from the biopsy site More pain around the biopsy site You may go back to your usual diet and activities unless your healthcare provider advises you differently.

Your healthcare provider may give you other instructions, depending on your situation. Next steps Before you agree to the test or the procedure make sure you know: The name of the test or procedure The reason you are having the test or procedure What results to expect and what they mean The risks and benefits of the test or procedure What the possible side effects or complications are When and where you are to have the test or procedure Who will do the test or procedure and what that person’s qualifications are What would happen if you did not have the test or procedure Any alternative tests or procedures to think about When and how will you get the results Who to call after the test or procedure if you have questions or problems How much will you have to pay for the test or procedure Related Videos The Skeletal System (Bones) | Medical Terminology for Cancer Medical Terminology for Cancer 6: The Skeletal System (Bones) Found this page useful? Functions of the skeletal system There are about 206 bones in the human body, they have the function of protecting and preserving the shape of soft tissues. The skeleton provides a framework for the muscles, it controls and directs internal pressure and provides stability anchoring points for other soft tissues.

There are a wide variety of bones/bony tissues adapted for specific functions to aid locomotion and support, bones are moved by the skeletal muscles . In addition the skeletal system stores and produces blood cells in the bone marrow. It is not the aim of this guide to catalogue each bone, but the following may be useful: Thorax the bones of the thorax (ribs, sternum and thoracic vertebrae) form a cage which protects many of the body's vital organs. The Axial skeleton This is the main body including the pelvis, thorax, and skull (excluding the arms and legs). The Proximal skeleton The femur and humerus (ie the bones proximal to the Axial skeleton) The Distal skeleton The lower legs (tibia, fibula, and feet bones) and lower arm (radius, ulna, and bones of the hand). The Proximal and Distal skeleton are sometimes collectively referred to as bones of the extremities. The spine The spine is divided into 5 main areas and each bone (verebrae) has a letter and number: Cervical vetebrae C1 - C7 the neck region. C1 is the upper most vertebrae.

Thoracic vertabrae T1 - T12 vertebrae of the upper body (thorax) Lumbar vertebrae L1 - L5 vertebrae of the lower back Bones of the sacrum S1 - S5 vertebra within the pelvic girdle. These bones fuse together between ages 16 and 18. The coccyx Co1 - Co4 The long shaft of the bone. Epiphysis The knob like end of the bone, often contains red marrow (blood cells). Metaphysis Region where the diaphysis joins the epiphysis, important in bone growth. Medullary Marrow cavity inside the bone. Contains yellow marrow (fat cells). Foramina Tiny canals in the bone through which blood and lymph vessels connect to the medullary. Cartilage Tough connective tissue covering the ends of the bone. The cartilage reduce friction and acts as a shock absorber. Ligament Fibrous tissue that connects bones or cartilage to strengthen and support joints. The end of the bones are often refered to by the Proximal end (towards the main body) or the Distal end (away from the main body), e.g.

the proximal femur is the top end of the thigh bone. Compact bone is dense and hard, especially the outer layer of the bone Spongy bone Made up of a lattice work of bone, the spaces are filled with red marrow which produce blood cells. Classification of bones by shape: Long bones Slightly curved for STRENGTH with long narrow shafts with knobbly ends (especially found in arms and legs e.g. femur). Short bones Tend to be spongy e.g. wrists, fingers, toes and ankles. Flat bones Plate like and highly PROTECTIVE e.g. bones of the skull protect the brain. Irregular bones Bones and growth Ossification is the gradual conversion of cartilage or other tissue into bone. At birth ossification is not complete, there are still may membrane filled spaces in the skull, these are called fontanels or "soft spots". Most bone growth occurs during childhood, and ossification of most bones is usually complete by age 25. The 5 bones of the sacrum fuse together from ages 18 to 25. When all bone growth is complete the body is said to be skeletally mature.

Roots, suffixes, and prefixes Most medical terms are comprised of a root word plus a suffix (word ending) and/or a prefix (beginning of the word). Here are some examples related to the Skeletal System. For more details see Chapter 4: Understanding the Components of Medical Terminology component arthritis = inflammation of the bone CHONDR- costalgia = pain in the ribs OSTEO- osteosarcoma = a type of bone tumour SCOLIO- scoliosis = curvature of the spine -LYSIS osteomyelitis = inflammation of the bone -OSIS osteoporosis = reduced bone mass-fracture prone -TOMY Osteogenic Sarcoma Osteogenic Sarcoma (osteosarcoma) is a bone forming cancer. It is the most frequent type of bone tumour and is most common between the ages of 15 to 25. Over 90% of tumours are located in the metaphysis (the growing ends of the bone), the most common sites are the long bones of the legs. Most tumours are solitary, around 2% are multifocal (2 or more bones). It is known that osteosarcoma can be radiation induced.

Osteosarcomas vary greatly in radiological and pathological features and therefore needs careful diagnosis to differentiate this from other bone tumours. Most are high grade intramedullary osteosarcomas, about 5% are low grade lesions, some are secondary osteosarcomas (for example those caused by radiation therapy). Ewing's Sarcoma Ewing's sarcoma is most common in children and young adults. The most frequent sites are the pelvis, femur, tibia, and fibula, around a fifth of patients have metastases at diagnosis usually in the lungs or other other bones. Ewing's tumours are more frequently found in the diaphysis (mid-shaft) part of the bone. Ewing's sarcoma can sometimes be restricted to soft tissue (Extraosseos Ewing's sarcoma). There is a spectrum of pathology ranging from 'classical' Ewing's which are negative for neural markers; to PNET (peripheral neuroectodermal tumours) which are strongly positive.

Chrondrosarcoma Chondrosarcoma is a cancer arising in cartilage cells, it occurs mostly in adults, it is rare in those aged under 20 with 70% of cases occurring between ages 50-75. Rare sub-types include mesenchymal chondrosarcoma which is more common in those aged under 40; Clear cell chondrosarcoma (around 2% of cases); and Dedifferenting chondrosarcoma (a rare tumour which transforms from low grade to a high grade sarcoma). Other Primary Bone Tumours Malignant Fibrous Histiocytoma (MFH) account for 10% of bone tumours, they arise from histiocytes that have fibroblastic potential. Chondoma is rare occurring mostly between ages 30 -70. This is a low grade malignancy which is arises from the remnants of the notochord (cells in the embryo which cause the formation of cartilage). Fibrosarcoma and desmoid tumours vary in malignant potential. Giant cell tumours some are benign, others may be malignant e.g. giant cell osteosarcoma, giant cell fibrosarcoma.

Neurogenious tumours of bone These include neuroepithelioma and malignant schwannoma. Intraosseous liposarcoma is very rare. Liposarcoma arises from fat cells, these tumours are common in muscle but in rare cases are found in bone. Similarly extraosseous osteosarcoma (osteosarcoma found in soft tissue) is very rare with less than 300 cases reported world wide. Bone sarcomas associated with Paget's disease Paget's disease is the most common bone disorder characterised by irregular thickening and softening of the bones. The disease is more common after the age of 40, and is frequent in those of European descent but rare in Asians. These is an association with this (non malignant) disease and bone cancer, up to 10% of those with Paget's disease will have a 'sarcomatous transformation' of affected bones giving rise to bone sarcoma. This may be osteosarcoma, fibrosarcoma, chondrosarcoma, or other bone sarcomas.

Question: What is the correct name for the bone commonly known as the breastbone?
Answer: STERNUM