What does 'thorax' refer to?

The term 'thorax' specifically refers to the chest and upper trunk region of the body. It encompasses the area that lies between the neck and the abdomen and includes vital structures such as the heart, lungs, and major blood vessels. Understanding the thoracic region is crucial in fields such as sports medicine and general anatomy because it plays a pivotal role in respiratory function and is also related to various athletic performances and their assessments. The thorax is protected by the rib cage, which is vital for shielding these organs and allowing for the movement necessary for breathing and physical activity.