External And Internal Obliques
Anatomical Info
Muscle Characteristics:
Nerves:
Nerve
System
Spinal Plexus
Division
Trunk
Branch
Roots
Intercostal
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Spinal
T5, T6, T7, T8, T9, T10, T11, And T12
Intercostal
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Spinal
T7, T8, T9, T10, T11, T12, And L1
Description
The external obliques and internal obliques muscles are two pairs of muscles located in the abdomen. The external obliques are situated on the sides and front of the abdomen, while the internal obliques are situated beneath the external obliques and run in the opposite direction. Both sets of muscles are innervated by the intercostal nerves.

The main functions of the external and internal obliques muscles are to support the spine and assist in the movement of the trunk. The external obliques muscles help to flex, rotate, and laterally bend the trunk, while the internal obliques muscles help to flex and rotate the trunk. Together, these muscles provide stability and support to the spine and allow for a wide range of movements of the trunk.

The external and internal obliques muscles are commonly used in activities that involve twisting and bending the trunk, such as reaching for objects or turning to look behind you. They are also used in activities that require stabilizing the spine, such as lifting heavy objects or standing for long periods of time.

The internal and external obliques are collectively referred to as the obliques. They work in tandem to carry out the same movements. The difference is that the internal obliques are same-side rotators, while the external obliques are opposite-side rotators.

So, while the left internal and external obliques both contract for left lateral flexion, the left internal oblique and right external oblique contract for left rotation.
Classified as part of the anterolateral abdominal wall, it is sandwiched between two similarly flat muscles: It lies deep to the external oblique and superficial to the transversus abdominis. It originates from the lumbar fascia and pelvis. Its parallel-oriented fibers run superior and anterior, inserting on the lower ribs and the internal oblique aponeurosis, forming a flat muscle architecture.

Targeted Muscle Exercises

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Muscle Engaging Sports

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