Relationship between costovertebral joint kinematics and lung volume in supine humans.

•A detailed analysis of costovertebral joint kinematics is presented.•No linear correlation was found between lung volumes and CVJ kinematics.•Ranges-of-motion decrease gradually with increasing CVJ level.•Rib displacements are reduced at lung volumes above 50% of the inspiratory capacity.•Axes of rotations of the ribs are similarly oriented for all rib levels.