external oblique muscle

Introduction

Flat muscle of the abdominal wall.

Origin

• external surfaces of the 5th to 12th ribs

Insertion

• anterior 1/2 of the lateral lip of the iliac crest
• inguinal ligament
• continues medially as part of the anterior layer of the rectus sheath

Action

• supports & compresses the abdominal viscera
• flexes & rotates the trunk

Innervation

• thoracoabdominal nerves

More general terms

• skeletal muscle (voluntary muscle)

Additional terms

• inguinal ligament