Transverse abdominal muscle

Transverse Abdominal Muscle

The Transverse Abdominal Muscle (TAM) is a muscle layer of the Anterior and lateral abdominal wall and is also known as the transversalis muscle. It is the deepest of the abdominal muscles, located beneath the internal oblique muscle.

Anatomy

The transverse abdominal muscle is a thin sheet of muscle whose fibers run horizontally. It originates from the iliac crest, the inguinal ligament, the thoracolumbar fascia, and the inner surface of the lower six ribs. It inserts into the linea alba, the pubic crest, and the pecten pubis via the conjoint tendon.

Function

The transverse abdominal muscle helps in the process of respiration by assisting in exhalation and compressing the internal organs. However, its main function is to activate the core and stabilize the pelvis and lower back prior to movement of the body.

Clinical significance

A weak transverse abdominal muscle can lead to a poor posture and increase the risk of having lower back pain. It is also one of the muscles that can be trained to help reduce the waistline.

See also

• Abdominal exercise
• Rectus abdominis muscle
• Internal oblique muscle
• External oblique muscle

References

Transverse abdominal muscle Resources
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