Hello, I'm Dr. Emily Carter, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system, including the rib cage. I'm here to explain why the last five pairs of ribs are called false ribs.

The human rib cage is composed of 12 pairs of ribs, which are long, curved bones that protect the heart and lungs. The ribs are attached to the vertebral column at the back and to the sternum (breastbone) in the front.

The first seven pairs of ribs are called true ribs because they are directly attached to the sternum via individual costal cartilages.

The remaining five pairs are known as false ribs, and they differ in their attachment to the sternum. The 8th, 9th, and 10th ribs are attached to the sternum indirectly by connecting to the cartilage of the 7th rib. This means they have a shared attachment, not a direct one.

The 11th and 12th ribs, also known as floating ribs, are not attached to the sternum at all. They are only attached to the vertebral column at the back and have no anterior (front) connection.

The term "false ribs" might be misleading, as it implies that these ribs are somehow inferior or less functional than the true ribs. This is not the case. The false ribs are essential for protecting the internal organs, providing support for breathing, and contributing to the overall structure and flexibility of the rib cage.

The difference in attachment is a structural feature that provides flexibility and allows for movement during respiration. The false ribs, particularly the floating ribs, allow for expansion of the rib cage during inhalation, making it easier for the lungs to fill with air.

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

True Ribs:

* Pairs: 1-7
* Attachment: Directly to the sternum via individual costal cartilages.
* Function: Provide structural support and protection for the chest cavity.

False Ribs:

* Pairs: 8-12
* Attachment:
* Pairs 8-10: Indirectly to the sternum by attaching to the cartilage of the 7th rib.
* Pairs 11-12 (Floating Ribs): Only attached to the vertebral column.
* Function: Provide flexibility, support breathing, and protect internal organs.

In conclusion, the term "false ribs" refers to the last five pairs of ribs because of their unique attachment to the sternum, not because they are less important or functional than the true ribs. They are vital components of the rib cage, playing a crucial role in protecting vital organs and facilitating respiration.
read more >>

False rib: One of the last five pairs of ribs. A rib is said to be false if it does not attach to the sternum (the breastbone). ... The last two false ribs usually have no ventral attachment to anchor them in front and so are called floating, fluctuating, or vertebral ribs.read more >>