Question

multiple choice question

which muscle acts to flex the vertebral column and compress the abdominal wall?

rectus abdominis
internal obliques
external obliques
transverse abdominis

Explanation:

Analyze the question requirements

The question asks to identify the muscle that performs two specific actions:

1. Flexes the vertebral column (bending the spine forward).
2. Compresses the abdominal wall.

Evaluate the options using mastered concepts

Using the Abdominal Wall Muscles and Obliques Function knowledge points

• Internal obliques and External obliques: While they compress the abdomen and can assist in flexion when acting bilaterally, their primary unique actions involve lateral flexion and rotation of the vertebral column.
• Transverse abdominis: Using the Transverse Abdominis Function knowledge point, this muscle compresses the abdominal contents but does not flex the vertebral column because its fibers run horizontally.
• Rectus abdominis: This long, vertical muscle runs along the front of the abdomen. Its primary action is to flex the lumbar region of the vertebral column (as in doing a crunch) and compress the abdominal viscera.

Confirm the correct muscle

The rectus abdominis is the principal muscle responsible for flexing the vertebral column while simultaneously compressing the abdominal wall.

Answer:

• (A) Rectus abdominis (Correct answer)
• (B) Internal obliques
• (C) External obliques
• (D) Transverse abdominis