beginning
In this article, I will explain “ribs” in detail.
The ribs form the human chest and have a role in protecting important organs such as the lungs and heart. In addition to the structure, type, and function of ribs, this article will also touch on common diseases involving ribs and advice for maintaining health.
Please use this article to deepen your understanding of the body.
Click here to watch a video about ribs
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What is a rib
The ribs (ribs) are important bones that shape and protect the chest of the human body. Humans usually have 24 ribs on the left and right, which protect the heart and lungs, which are important organs within the chest cavity. Along with the formation of the chest cavity, it also plays an important role in the process of breathing.
How to read ribs
“rib” is read as “rokkotsu” in Japanese. Ribs also have the meaning of “ribs,” so they are sometimes called “ribs.”
Rib characteristics
Depending on their shape, ribs are classified as constant ribs, excessive ribs, and floating ribs. The top 7 pairs of ribs are called constant ribs, connect directly to the sternum and are most involved in protecting the rib cage. The ribs at the bottom are called floating ribs or excess ribs, do not directly connect to the sternum and are mobile.
Location and position of ribs

The ribs are arranged to cover the area from the sides of the chest to the back. The upper ribs begin near the base of the neck, and the lower ribs sit at the top of the lower back. By referring to a human anatomy chart, it is possible to grasp its exact arrangement and shape.
(In the figure, the 5th rib is shown even among the ribs.)
How to memorize ribs
Learning using diagrams and tables is effective as a way to memorize ribs efficiently. You can also memorize the characteristics of each using the phrase “1-7 constant, 8-10 false, 11-12 floating.”
English and Latin for ribs
They say “Rib” in English and “Costa” in Latin. Since Latin is mostly used in medical terms, “Costa” can often be seen in medical settings and in academic books.
Trivia about ribs
The number of ribs varies from person to person, and there are also people who have 25 or more ribs instead of 24. These are called excessive ribs, and although they rarely cause health problems, they can rarely cause pain.
tissue associated with ribs: characteristics of the sternum
The sternum is a long, flat bone, and its main role is to form the front of the rib cage and protect vital organs. The sternum consists of three parts: the upper “collarbone (sternal pattern, manubrium),” the central “body (sternum body),” and the lower “xiphoid process (xiphoid process).” These parts merge as they grow. The sternum is connected directly to the ribs or through cartilage tissue to form a strong rib cage. By solidifying this connection, the lungs take in an appropriate amount of air and support the expansion of the chest during breathing.
Tissue associated with ribs: location and position of sternum
The sternum is located in the center of the human body, in front of the rib cage. The upper end forms a joint with the collarbone, and the lower end is terminated by a xiphoid process. The heart and lungs are located behind the sternum, and the sternum acts like armor that protects these organs from physical damage. The location and structure of the sternum is important in the diagnosis and treatment process in healthcare facilities. For example, surgery requiring access to the heart may open the sternum.
Tissues associated with ribs: trivia about sternum
Sternum growth: As a person grows, the three parts of the sternum gradually merge. This process is usually completed by the time you reach adulthood.
Xiphoid changes: The xiphoid process ossifies in adulthood, but its shape can vary greatly from person to person. Some people may have curved xiphoid protuberances, which generally do not cause health problems.
Rib quiz with correct answers
Q1. How far is the true rib to the waist?
Correct answer: Up to 7th waist
Q2. What are ribs called in English?
Correct answer: Rib
summary
This time, I explained the location and position of “ribs,” how to memorize them, and the English and Latin notation.
How was it?
I would be happy if reading this article deepened my understanding of anatomy.
Learning is a long, never-ending journey, but I sincerely wish you all the best. Let's continue to study together and work hard for the national exam!
Please look forward to the next blog.
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