Inferior rectus muscle

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The inferior rectus muscle is one of the six extraocular muscles that control the movements of the eye. It is responsible for the downward movement of the eye, as well as its adduction and extorsion.

Anatomy

The inferior rectus muscle originates from the Annulus of Zinn, a tendinous ring located at the apex of the orbit. It inserts approximately 6.5 mm inferior to the corneal limbus.

Innervation

The muscle is innervated by the inferior branch of the oculomotor nerve (cranial nerve III).

Blood Supply

The blood supply to the inferior rectus muscle is provided by the ophthalmic artery.

Function

The primary function of the inferior rectus muscle is to depress the eyeball. It also contributes to the adduction and extorsion of the eye. The muscle works in opposition to the superior rectus muscle, which elevates the eye.

Clinical Significance

Dysfunction of the inferior rectus muscle can result in strabismus, where the eyes do not properly align with each other. This can lead to double vision and other visual disturbances.

Related Pages

• Extraocular muscles
• Oculomotor nerve
• Superior rectus muscle
• Annulus of Zinn
• Ophthalmic artery
• Strabismus

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