Running out of space for baby?
It's time to stretch those intercostal muscles in the side body! Here is why:
Intercostal muscles are a group of muscles located between the ribs in the thoracic region of the body. They play a crucial role in respiration, specifically in the expansion and contraction of the ribcage during breathing. There are two main sets of intercostal muscles: the external intercostal muscles and the internal intercostal muscles. Here's a brief description of each:
- External Intercostal Muscles: These muscles are found on the outermost layer of the intercostal muscles. They run obliquely downward and forward between adjacent ribs. During inhalation, the external intercostal muscles contract, pulling the ribs upward and outward. This action helps to increase the volume of the thoracic cavity, allowing the lungs to expand and fill with air.
- Internal Intercostal Muscles: These muscles are located beneath the external intercostal muscles, running in the opposite direction. There are two layers of internal intercostal muscles: the external and internal layers. The internal layer runs obliquely downward and backward, while the innermost layer runs transversely. During forced exhalation, both layers of internal intercostal muscles contract, pulling the ribs downward and inward. This reduces the volume of the thoracic cavity, helping to expel air from the lungs.
The intercostal muscles work in coordination with the diaphragm, which is the primary muscle responsible for inhalation. During breathing, the intercostal muscles assist the diaphragm by elevating the ribs and expanding the chest cavity. During forced breathing, such as during exercise, the intercostal muscles play a more active role in expanding and contracting the ribcage to increase the rate and depth of breathing.
In addition to their role in respiration, the intercostal muscles also provide stability and support to the ribcage, protecting the underlying organs in the thoracic cavity.
It's worth noting that there are other smaller muscles, such as the subcostal muscles and the transversus thoracic muscles, which also contribute to the movements of the ribcage during breathing.