Rectus abdominis is one of the muscles of the anterior abdominal wall. It is divided into two parts which abut each other either side of the linea alba.
It originates from the symphysis pubis and the pubic crest. From here it passes superiorly, broadening in the process, to insert into the anterior surface of the xiphoid process, the medial part of the costal margin and the 5th to 7th costal cartilages.
Rectus abdominis is enclosed within the rectus sheath. The rectus sheath is strongly adherent to the muscle at three of four tendinous intersections.
The actions of rectus abdominis are manifold:
Rectus abdominis is innervated by the anterior primary rami of the inferior intercostal and subcostal nerves (T7-12).
Annotations allow you to add information to this page that would be handy to have on hand during a consultation. E.g. a website or number. This information will always show when you visit this page.