The external oblique muscle is a large, flat muscle located in the lateral and anterior areas of the abdomen. It is one of the muscles that make up the abdominal wall and is part of the muscular system. The muscle is located just below the skin and is covered by a layer of fascia, which is a type of connective tissue.
Structure
The external oblique muscle has a triangular shape and extends from the lower ribs down to the pelvis. It is attached to the lower eight ribs by a series of tendons, which are fibrous cords that connect muscle to bone. The muscle is also attached to the iliac crest, which is the bony protrusion located on the top of the pelvis.
The external oblique muscle is made up of muscle fibers that run in opposite directions, which gives it a diagonal orientation. This allows the muscle to flex and rotate the spine, as well as perform lateral flexion. The muscle is also responsible for maintaining proper posture and balance.
Location
The external oblique muscle is located on the lateral and anterior aspects of the abdomen, extending from the lower ribs to the pelvis. It is located just below the skin and is covered by a layer of fascia. The external oblique muscle is located on the same side as the diaphragm and the internal oblique muscle, which are also part of the abdominal wall. The external oblique muscle is located near several other muscles, including the rectus abdominis, transversus abdominis, and serratus anterior.
Function
The external oblique muscle has several important functions in the body, including:
- Flexion and rotation of the spine: The external oblique muscle is responsible for flexing and rotating the spine. This is important for movements such as bending over or reaching for something.
- Lateral flexion: The external oblique muscle also helps with lateral flexion, which is the movement of the spine to the side. This is important for activities such as reaching to the side or turning to look over your shoulder.
- Maintaining proper posture and balance: The external oblique muscle is also involved in maintaining proper posture and balance. This is important for standing upright and moving smoothly.
- Supporting abdominal organs: The external oblique muscle is part of the abdominal wall, which helps to support the abdominal organs. This is important for maintaining proper organ function and protecting them from injury.
- Maintaining abdominal pressure: The external oblique muscle is also involved in maintaining abdominal pressure, which is important for proper bowel and bladder function. This is because the muscle helps to compress the abdominal contents, which helps to push waste through the intestines and out of the body.
Clinical significance
Injury and strain
The external oblique muscle can be injured or strained through overuse or trauma. Common causes of injury include lifting heavy objects, twisting the spine, or participating in high-impact sports. Symptoms of an injury to the external oblique muscle may include pain, swelling, and muscle spasms.
Diagnosis and treatment
To diagnose an injury or strain to the external oblique muscle, a healthcare provider may perform a physical examination and ask about the patient’s symptoms and medical history. They may also order imaging tests such as an X-ray or MRI to assess the extent of the injury. Treatment for an injury to the external oblique muscle may include rest, ice, physical therapy, and medication. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the muscle.
Importance of proper treatment
It is important to seek medical attention if you suspect an injury to the external oblique muscle to ensure proper treatment and recovery. Ignoring or improperly treating an injury to the external oblique muscle can lead to further injury or complications such as muscle weakness or difficulty performing daily activities.
