Rectus abdominis

Musculus rectus abdominis

A long, flat, paired muscle running vertically on each side of the anterior abdominal wall. Enclosed in the rectus sheath, it originates from the pubic crest and symphysis and inserts on the xiphoid process and costal cartilages of ribs 5-7. Three tendinous intersections create the appearance of a six-pack.

Tipo Muscle
Sistema corporal Muscular
Región corporal Abdomen
Nombre latino Musculus rectus abdominis
FMA ID 9628

Función

Flexes the trunk (bending forward). Compresses the abdominal viscera for functions including forced expiration, defecation, urination, and childbirth. Stabilizes the pelvis during walking.

Significado clínico

Diastasis recti is separation of the rectus muscles at the linea alba, common in pregnancy. Rectus sheath hematoma results from epigastric vessel injury. The rectus abdominis free flap is used in breast reconstruction (TRAM flap).

Preguntas frecuentes

What is the rectus abdominis?
The rectus abdominis is a paired, long flat muscle running vertically along the anterior abdominal wall on either side of the midline. It is enclosed within the rectus sheath and is responsible for trunk flexion and abdominal compression.
Where is the rectus abdominis located?
The rectus abdominis is located on the anterior abdominal wall, running from the pubic crest and symphysis inferiorly to the xiphoid process and costal cartilages of ribs 5–7 superiorly. It is enclosed in the rectus sheath, flanking the linea alba.
What is the function of the rectus abdominis?
The rectus abdominis flexes the vertebral column, compresses the abdominal contents, and assists in forced expiration and other activities that increase intra-abdominal pressure. It also contributes to stabilizing the pelvis during movement.
What conditions may be associated with the rectus abdominis?
The rectus abdominis may be involved in rectus sheath hematoma, diastasis recti (separation of the two muscle bellies), and abdominal wall hernias. Strains and tears of this muscle are also associated with high-intensity exercise or sudden forceful movements.
What does the rectus abdominis look like?
The rectus abdominis appears as two elongated, strap-like muscles separated by the linea alba. Three tendinous intersections cross each muscle belly, creating the segmented, 'six-pack' appearance visible in lean individuals or on ultrasound imaging.

Estructuras relacionadas

muscle head caput (musculus) muscle tissue muscular tissue musculature muscle group iliopsoas Hyrtl's muscle orbital septum septum orbitale pes anserinus of tibia pes anserine right bundle branch crus dextrum (fasciculi atrioventricularis) muscle belly belly

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Educational Disclaimer

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Data sources: Terminologia Anatomica, Foundational Model of Anatomy, Wikidata.