What are floating ribs why are they called this?

Answer:

Ribs that are directly connected to bone on only one end are "floating". There are short ribs in humans that are bonded to the sternum via cartilage, so they are free to flex or "float" at one end.

This provides for increased flexibility, and decreased stress on the spine.

First answer by OzoneGuy. Last edit by OzoneGuy. Contributor trust: 275 Question popularity: 2 [recommend question].