Levator Ani (Pelvis Diaphragm)

Supports and maintains position of plevis.

Resists downward thrusts during coughing, vomiting.

Forms sphincters at anorectal and vaginal juncitons.

Lifts Anal canal during defecation.

Rectus Abdominus

Medial superficial abdominal pair, segmented by 3 tendinous intersections.

Action: Flew and rotate lumbar region

Transverse Abdominis

Deepest of the abdominal wall. The muscle fibre runs in horizontal (transverse) direction.

Action: To compress the abdominal contents.

Internal Oblique

Action: Flexing vertebral column and compressing abdominal wall. Aids muscles in the back to rotate and laterally flex the trunk.

External Oblique

Superficial lateral muscle found in the abdominal wall.

Action: Flexing vertebral column and compressing abdominal wall. Aids muscles in the back to rotate and laterally flex the trunk.

External Intercostal

Again, 11 pairs between ribs that run obliquely (downwards) fro each rib to the next.

Action: Pulls the rib cages up to aid in inspiration. Synergist of the Diaphragm.

Internal Intercostal

11 pairs lie between ribs and run deep to and at right angles of the external intercostals.

Action: Depress ribcage, aid in forced expiration by drawing ribs together