Origin, Insertion, and Function of Human Abdominal Muscles

Question 1

Serratus anterior

Answer 1

Origin: Lateral aspect of ribs
1–8

Insertion: Vertebral border of
anterior surface of
scapula

Function: rotates scapula

Question 2

External intercostals

Answer 2

Origin: Inferior border of rib
above

Insertion: Superior border of rib below

Function: aids in inspiration of air

Question 3

Internal intercostals

Answer 3

Origin: Superior border of rib
below

Insertion: Inferior border of rib above

Function: aids in expiration of air

Question 4

Diaphragm

Answer 4

Origin: Inferior border of sternum

Insertion: Central tendon

Function: inspiration of air

Question 5

Rectus abdominis

Answer 5

Origin: Pubic crest and
symphysis

Insertion: Xiphoid process

Function: Flexes vertebral column

Question 6

External oblique

Answer 6

Origin: Anterior surface of
ribs 1-8

Insertion: Linea alba

Function: compresses abdominal wall

Question 7

Internal oblique

Answer 7

Origin: iliac crest

Insertion: Linea alba

Function: compresses abdominal wall

Question 8

Transversus

abdominis

Answer 8

Origin: iliac crest

Insertion: Linea alba

Function: compresses abdominal contents

Question 9

Linea alba

Answer 9

It’s a connective tissue line