Breathing and abdominal muscles

Question 1

External Intercostal Muscles

Answer 1

Origin - Inferior surface of the rib above
Insertion - Superior Surface of the rib below
Action - Elevates rib cage

Question 2

Internal Intercostal Muscles

Answer 2

Origin - Superior surface of the rib below
Insertion - Inferior surface of the rib above
Action - Depresses ribcage

Question 3

Diaphragm

Answer 3

Origin - Xiphoid process, lower ribs, first lumbar vertebra
Insertion - A central tendon
Action - Flattens on contraction

Question 4

Rectus Abdominis

Answer 4

Origin - Superior surface of the pubic bone
Insertion - Xiphoid process and costal cartilage of ribs 5-7
Action - ‐Flex and rotate lumbar region of vertebrae
Increase intra‐abdominal
pressure and Stabilisation

Question 5

Transverse Abdominis

Answer 5

Maintaining tone in the core, helping to compress ribs and viscera