Semester 1, Quiz 2

Question 1

Rectus Abdominus

Answer 1

The rectus abdominis is an important postural muscle. It is responsible for flexing the lumbar spine, as when doing a “crunch”. The rectus abdominis assists with breathing and plays an important role in respiration in the event the patient is short of breath. It also helps in keeping the internal organs intact and in creating intra-abdominal pressure, such as when exercising or lifting heavy weights, during forceful defecation or parturition (childbirth).

Question 2

External Oblique

Answer 2

• Structure : The external oblique is situated on the lateral and anterior parts of the abdomen. It is broad and thin. In most humans (especially females), the oblique is not visible, due to subcutaneous fat deposits and the small size of the muscle.
• Actions : The external oblique functions to pull the chest downwards and compress the abdominal cavity. It also has limited actions in both flexion to the same side and rotation of the vertebral column to the opposite side. It also contributes in compression of abdomen.

Question 3

Internal Oblique

Answer 3

-Actions : Compresses abdomen; unilateral contraction rotates vertebral column to same side.

Question 4

Tranversus Abdominus

Answer 4

• Actions : compresses abdomen
• The transversus abdominis (TVA) helps to compress the ribs and viscera, providing thoracic and pelvic stability. The transversus abdominis also helps pregnant women deliver their child.

-The transversus abdominis muscle, also known as the transverse abdominus, transversalis muscle and transverse abdominal muscle, is a muscle layer of the anterior and lateral abdominal wall which is deep to (layered below) the internal oblique muscle. It is thought to be a major muscle of the functional core of the human body; although some argue that due to its small cross-sectional area, it cannot generate the forces required to be a prime core stabilizer.

Question 5

Prone

Answer 5

-laying face down

Question 6

Supine

Answer 6

-laying face up