Inferior rectus muscle

Inferior Rectus Muscle

The Inferior Rectus Muscle is one of the extraocular muscles that control the movements of the eye. It is responsible for downward gaze and is innervated by the inferior division of oculomotor nerve (cranial nerve III).

Anatomy

The Inferior Rectus Muscle originates from the annulus of Zinn, also known as the common tendinous ring, which is located at the apex of the orbit. It inserts onto the anterior, inferior surface of the eye.

Function

The primary function of the Inferior Rectus Muscle is to depress the eye, or move it downward. It also contributes to adduction (movement of the eye towards the nose) and internal rotation of the eye.

Clinical Significance

Damage to the Inferior Rectus Muscle or its nerve supply can result in diplopia (double vision) and difficulty in looking downward. This can be caused by trauma, neurological disorders, or thyroid eye disease.

See Also

• Superior rectus muscle
• Medial rectus muscle
• Lateral rectus muscle
• Inferior oblique muscle
• Superior oblique muscle
• Levator palpebrae superioris

References

Inferior rectus muscle Resources
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