Intercostal muscle
Intercostal Muscle
The Intercostal Muscle (pronunciation: in-ter-kos-tal mus-el) is a group of muscles that are situated in the intercostal spaces between the ribs. They are primarily involved in the mechanical aspect of breathing, including the expansion and contraction of the chest cavity.
Etymology
The term "Intercostal" is derived from the Latin words "inter", meaning between, and "costa", meaning rib. Thus, the term literally translates to "between the ribs".
Anatomy
The Intercostal Muscles are divided into three layers: the External Intercostal Muscles, the Internal Intercostal Muscles, and the Innermost Intercostal Muscles. Each layer has a specific role in the process of respiration.
- External Intercostal Muscles: These are the most superficial layer and they aid in inspiration by elevating the ribs, thus expanding the chest cavity.
- Internal Intercostal Muscles: These are found between the External and Innermost layers. They aid in forced expiration by depressing the ribs, thus reducing the chest cavity's volume.
- Innermost Intercostal Muscles: These are the deepest layer and they also aid in forced expiration.
Function
The primary function of the Intercostal Muscles is to assist in the process of respiration. They do this by altering the volume of the chest cavity during inspiration and expiration. In addition, they also provide structural support to the chest cavity and protect the vital organs within it.
Related Terms
- Respiration: The process of inhaling and exhaling air, which is primarily facilitated by the Intercostal Muscles.
- Thoracic Cavity: The part of the body where the Intercostal Muscles are located.
- Ribs: The bones that the Intercostal Muscles are situated between.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Intercostal muscle
- Wikipedia's article - Intercostal muscle
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