Transversus Abdominis

The Transverse Abdominis is a muscle of the abdomen.

The abdominal muscles are frequently referred to as the Abs.

Anatomical Attachments:

• Origin: Attaches to the costal cartilages of the lower 6 ribs, middle layer of the lumbar fascia, anterior two-thirds of the inner lip of the iliac crest and the lateral third of the inguinal ligament.
• Insertion: Attaches by the linea alba, pubic crest.

Action: Compresses the abdominal contents, supports the abdominal viscera, and is active in forced exhalation.

Synergist:   Quadratus lumborum, Diaphragm.

Nerve Supply: Thoracic nerves (T7, T8, T9, T10, T11, T12) and Lumbar nerves (L1, L2, L3, L4).

Vascular supply: Supply: Deep circumflex iliac and the inferior epigastric arteries.

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Trigger Point Signs and Symptoms: Heartburn, nausea, projectile vomiting, belching from the pressure applied to the TrP “belch button”, diarrhea.

Trigger Point Activating and Perpetuating Factors: Abdominal scars from surgery, acute trauma, chronic occupational strain, over exercise, emotional tension, viral infections, straining during fecal elimination, poor posture.

Differential Diagnosis: (Segmental, Subluxation, Somatic dysfunction) T4 T5 T6 T7 T8 T9 or T10 radiculopathy, Fibromyalgia, Appendicitis, Gastroenteritis, Esophageal reflux disorder, Peptic ulcer (Stomach ulcer), Stomach perforation, Gastric carcinoma (Stomach cancer), Diverticulitis, Rectus abdominis hematoma, Chronic Cholecystitis, Gallbladder Disorder, Colic, Painful rib syndrome, Costochondritis, Hiatal hernia, Inguinal hernia, Hepatitis, Pancreatitis, Pancreatic carcinoma, Diverticulosis, Intestinal parasites, Umbilical hernia, Pregnancy, Spontaneous Abortion (Miscarriage), Ascariasis, Myocardial infarction, Angina pectoris, Aortic Aneurysm, Splenomegaly, Splenic flexure syndrome, Ruptured spleen, Systemic infections or inflammation, Nutritional inadequacy, Metabolic imbalance, Toxicity, Side effects of medication.

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