Wk2: Muscles of Back, Abdomen and Lower Limb

Question 1

What is the function of the erector spinae (back muscle) bilaterally and unilaterally?

Answer 1

Bilaterally - extends/erects the vertebral column

Unilaterally - flexion of the vertebral column to one side of the body

Question 2

What are the muscles of the abdominal wall?

Answer 2

Transverse abdominal muscle, Internal abdominal oblique muscle, rectus abdominis, external abdominal oblique muscle

Question 3

What are the functions of the abdominal?

Answer 3

• Anterior, lateral flexion and rotation of the trunk
• Contraction of the muscles are helpful in forceful expiration to increase intra abdominal pressure - for eg, sneezing, coughing defacation

Question 4

What is the function of the gluteus maximuus?

Answer 4

• Extension of the thigh posteriorly

Question 5

What is the function of the quadriceps femoris (anterior thigh compartment)?

Answer 5

Quadriceps femoris

• All extend and flex the leg at the knee joint
• Rectus femoris crosses the hip joint; also flexes the thigh at the hip joint

Question 6

What is the function of the hamstrings (posterior thigh compartment)?

Answer 6

• Extension of the thigh

- Flexion of the leg (posteriorly)

Question 7

What is the function of the extensor/dorsiflexor group (anterior compartment of leg muscle)?

Answer 7

• Dorsiflexors of the ankle joint

Question 8

What is the function of the gastrocnemius and soleus (posterior compartment of leg muscle)

Answer 8

Gastrocnemius

• Plantarflexors of the ankle joint
• Assists in knee flexion

Soleus
- Plantarflexion of the foot

Question 9

What is the function of the lateral compartment of the leg?

Answer 9

Eversion of the foot