Internal Oblique Abdominis

The Internal Oblique Abdominis is a muscle of the abdomen.

The abdominal muscles are frequently referred to as the Abs.

Anatomical Attachments:

• Origin: Attaches to the lumbar fascia, the anterior two-thirds of the iliac crest and the lateral two-thirds of the inguinal ligament.
• Insertion: Attaches to the last 3 ribs and the linea alba extending to the pubic bone.

Action: Works collectively with the external oblique. Aids the rectus abdominis muscle in compressing the abdominal wall and supporting the viscera.

Synergist: Diaphragm, External oblique abdominis, Transverse abdominis, Rectus abdominis, Pyramidalis, Levator Ani.

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

Vascular supply: Superior and inferior epigastric and deep circumflex iliac arteries.

• Primary: The pain refers to the testicles, groin and abdomen; however there may be referral to the urinary bladder and incontinence may be experienced.
• Satellite or associated triggers: Serratus anterior, Adductor muscles of the thigh.

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Trigger Point Signs and Symptoms: Deep aching pain in the testes or medial superior aspect of the leg, finger like projection of pain referral may be experienced in the abdomen, significant bladder discomfort and/or incontinence occasionally is observed.

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) T6 T7 T8 T9 T10 T11 or T12 radiculopathy, L1 L2 L3 or L4 radiculopathy, Fibromyalgia, Multiple sclerosis, Appendicitis, Ascites, Rectus abdominis hematoma, Chronic Cholecystitis, Ureteral colic, Gallbladder Disorder, Colic, Constipation, Intestinal obstruction (Fecal impaction, Hernia, Adhesion), Painful rib syndrome, Costochondritis, Urinary incontinence, Urinary tract disease, Hiatal hernia, Inguinal hernia, Hepatitis, Hepatic Carcinoma (Liver Cancer), Pancreatitis, Pancreatic carcinoma, Diverticulosis, Intestinal parasites, Umbilical hernia, Ascariasis, Iliac aneurysm, Splenomegaly, Splenic flexure syndrome, Ruptured spleen, Ovarian cyst, Ovarian cancer, Pregnancy, Tubal pregnancy (Ectopic pregnancy), Spontaneous Abortion (Miscarriage), Endometriosis, Intractable dysmenorrhea, Epididymitis, Testicular cancer, Testicular torsion, Prostatitis, Orchitis, Varicocele, Systemic infections or inflammation, Nutritional inadequacy, Metabolic imbalance, Toxicity, Side effects of medication.

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