External Intercostal Muscles

Description

Schematic of the chest wall musculature indicating the location of muscles. Inspiratory muscles including scalenes, external intercostals, parasternal intercostals and diaphragm are drawn on the left. Expiratory muscles are drawn on the right

Origin

• Inferior border of rib above

Insertion

• Superior border of rib below

Actions

• Elevate ribs during forced inspiration
• Stabilizes intercostal spaces

Vascular Supply

• Anterior and Posterior Intercostal Arteries
• Internal Thoracic Arteries
• Musculophrenic Arteries

Nerve

• Intercostal Nerves

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Clinical Significance

• Rib Fracture

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See Also

• Physical Exam Chest
• Torso Anatomy (Main)
• Chest Pain (Main)

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