M. rectus abdominis
Rectus muscle of abdomen
from the front
ATTACHMENTS:
Xiphoid process, cartilages of 5th, 6th, and 7th ribs - pubic crest.
FUNCTION:
Primary function: Flexes lumbar vertebrae (back bone).
Secondary function: contractions.
Gets support from tendons of the other stomach muscles in the rectus sheath
Holds up the front part of the pelvis.
FORM:
Flat, divided in intersectiones tendineae @ 3 - 5 pair.
Divided length wise by a tendon, linea
alba, which goes from the xiphoid process to
the pubic crest.
NERVE SUPPLY:
Branches of lower thoracic 7 -12 and lumbar plexus L 1.
ANTAGONIST:
Mm. erector spinae. (erector spinae muscle complex)
CHARACTERISTICS:
If tight, obstructs breathing and movement of the diaphragm - Mm. diaphragma
Pain in the groin / pain on crest of pubic bone can be sign of a torn
ligament/muscle
= requires contact
with Doctor.
TRAINING:
Short sit-ups (knees bent). Walking and running.
More effective training: lay on floor, tighten gluteus
maximus - press knee fold against
the floor - do palmar (bend foot downwards) flexion, and after, do
short sit ups