Translations:Brustwirbelsäule/3/en

Through rib-vortex-joints it is possible to move the thorax, which contracts and expands when breathing. At the upper and lower edge of the second to ninth thoracic vertebra there is a flat joint socket, which together with the adjacent thoracic vertebra forms the joint surface for a rib head (intercostal joints).
The upper joint pit for the first rib and a half lower joint pit for the second rib, carries alone the first thoracic vertebra. In contrast, the tenth thoracic vertebra has only the upper socket for the tenth rib. A whole socket for the eleventh and twelfth ribs ending in the abdominal wall carry the eleventh and twelfth thoracic vertebrae.