Muscles of the Abdomen

Overview

The muscles of the abdominal wall support posture, respiratory movement and protection of abdominal organs. This section introduces the major muscle groups of the anterolateral and posterior abdominal walls.

Key Structures

Topics include the anterolateral abdominal wall, with its layered musculature and fascial planes, and the posterior abdominal wall, which contributes to trunk stability and movement.

Clinical Relevance and Learning Focus

Knowledge of abdominal wall anatomy assists in evaluating hernias, abdominal pain, surgical incisions and core stability. It underpins procedures such as laparoscopic entry and regional anaesthesia.

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Illustration of the lateral abdominal wall showing the external oblique muscle, its aponeurotic fibres, and the linea alba.

The Anterolateral Abdominal Wall

Diagram of the muscles of the posterior abdominal wall, including Psoas Minor, Psoas Major, and Iliacus.

The Posterior Abdominal Wall

Popular

Diagram illustrating the course and supply of the buccal nerve as it emerges between the heads of the lateral pterygoid muscle.
Encyclopaedia

Buccal Nerve

by Daaniyal Khawaja

Diagram illustrating the contents of the quadrangular space, highlighting the axillary nerve and posterior circumflex humeral artery.
Anatomical Areas

The Quadrangular Space

by Dr Oliver Jones

Anatomical diagram illustrating the course of the lateral cutaneous nerve of the thigh.
Encyclopaedia

Lateral Cutaneous Nerve of the Thigh

by Mihir Himanshu Majeethia