Rectus abdominis

Rectus abdominis is a muscle that runs vertically on each side of the anterior wall of the human abdomen. It is also known as the "abdominal muscle" or "abs". It is a paired muscle running vertically on each side of the anterior wall of the human abdomen. There are two parallel muscles, separated by a midline band of connective tissue called the linea alba. It extends from the pubic symphysis, pubic crest and pubic tubercle inferiorly, to the xiphoid process and costal cartilages of ribs 5, 6 and 7 superiorly.

Anatomy

The rectus abdominis muscle is contained in the rectus sheath, which consists of the aponeuroses of the lateral abdominal muscles. Bands of connective tissue called tendinous intersections traverse the rectus abdominis, which separates this long muscle into several distinct muscle bellies. The outer, most lateral line, defining the abs is the linea semilunaris.

Function

The function of the rectus abdominis is to flex the lumbar spine, as in doing a 'crunch'. It also helps to stabilize the pelvis and lower back.

Clinical significance

Injury to the rectus abdominis muscle or its nerve supply can lead to a hernia. In people with a rectus diastasis, the muscle is separated and is less functional.

See also

• Abdominal exercise
• Abdominal internal oblique muscle
• Abdominal external oblique muscle
• Transversus abdominis muscle

References

Rectus abdominis Resources
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