The costotransverse joints are the articulations on each side of the spinal column of a given thoracic rib with the transverse process of its corresponding thoracic vertebra:
In the upper 6 ribs, the facets are reciprocally concave and convex. Inferior ribs have planar facets in apposition. This has implications for respiratory movements. The upper ribs are rotated upwards and laterally about their axis of rotation on external oblique contraction whereas the lower ribs are elevated just laterally.
The costotransverse joints are reinforced by the costotransverse ligaments.
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