Where the fourth rib sits in the skeleton
The fourth rib is the 4th of the twelve pairs of ribs forming the rib cage. Its back end articulates with the thoracic vertebrae. It is a true rib: its front end joins the sternum directly through its own costal cartilage. The ribs surround the heart and lungs and move with breathing. A costal groove runs along the inner lower edge of its shaft, carrying, from above down, the intercostal vein, artery and nerve.
Frequently asked questions
Which part of the skeleton is the fourth rib in?
The fourth rib is one of the bones of the rib cage. Twelve pairs of ribs form the rib cage around the heart and lungs.
How many ribs are there?
There are twelve pairs of ribs, 24 in all. Ribs 1 to 7 are true ribs, ribs 8 to 10 are false ribs, and ribs 11 and 12 are floating ribs.
What lies above and below the 4th rib?
The 3rd rib lies above it and the 5th rib below. At the back it articulates with the thoracic vertebrae.
Where do the intercostal nerve and vessels run?
In the costal groove on the inner lower edge of each rib, in the order vein, artery and nerve from above down.
Other ribs
- First rib
- Second rib
- Third rib
- Fifth rib
- Sixth rib
- Seventh rib
- Eighth rib
- Ninth rib
- Tenth rib
- Eleventh rib
- Twelfth rib
Joints of the fourth rib
Compare with similar bones
Bone counts
By region
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