College of Massage Therapists of British Columbia (CMTBC) Practice Exam

Which bone do the conoid, trapezoid, and costoclavicular ligaments attach to?

1. clavicle

2. humerus

3. sternum

4. scapula

The correct answer is: clavicle

The correct choice is the clavicle because the conoid, trapezoid, and costoclavicular ligaments are all key ligaments that support the acromioclavicular joint and provide stability to the shoulder girdle. The conoid ligament attaches to the conoid tubercle of the clavicle, while the trapezoid ligament connects to the trapezoid line of the clavicle. Together, these ligaments form part of the coracoclavicular ligament, which is crucial for maintaining the positional relationship between the clavicle and the scapula. Additionally, the costoclavicular ligament attaches to the inferior surface of the clavicle and the first rib, helping to stabilize the clavicle against the sternum during arm movements. The other bones listed—humerus, sternum, and scapula—do not have these specific ligaments attached to them, which is why those options do not represent the correct answer. The focus of these ligaments is specifically to support and stabilize the clavicle in relation to other structures within the shoulder region.