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Muscles/Chest

Chest

Innermost intercostal muscle

IN-er-most in-ter-KOS-tal

Innermost intercostals are deep rib muscles aiding forced expiration like coughing. Support breathing in high-intensity training.

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Common Pain & Injury

Rare; intercostal strain feels sharp side pain.

Anatomy & Function

Origin

Inner rib surfaces

Insertion

Inner adjacent rib

Actions

  • Rib depression (expiration)

Innervation

Intercostal nerves (T1-T11)

Muscle Relationships

Antagonists

External intercostals

Synergists

Internal intercostals

Trigger Points

Limited; local rib pain.

Stretches

1Side bend stretch

Common Conditions

Intercostal strainCostochondritis

Anatomical Parts

Innermost intercostal muscle

FAQ

Innermost intercostal function?

Pulls ribs down for exhale.

Exercises for Innermost intercostal muscle

20

Also Works Innermost intercostal muscle

10

Related Chest Muscles

Abdominal part of left pectoralis major
The abdominal part of the left pectoralis major is the lower portion of the left chest's primary pushing muscle, attaching from the sternum down to the ribs near the abdomen. It drives shoulder adduction and flexion, crucial for powerful presses like bench variations and dips. Fitness enthusiasts target it for that defined lower chest line in bodybuilding.
Abdominal part of right pectoralis major
The abdominal part of the right pectoralis major forms the lower section of the right chest's main power muscle, spanning from the sternum to the abdominal ribs. It excels in adduction and flexion for presses and flyes, key for balanced chest development. Gym-goers love it for carving out that teardrop lower chest aesthetic.
Anterior papillary muscle of right ventricle
This cardiac muscle inside the right ventricle anchors mitral valve leaflets for proper heart pumping. Not skeletal, but endurance training optimizes heart efficiency. Matters for cardio performance indirectly.
Anterolateral head of lateral papillary muscle of left ventricle
Specialized head of left heart papillary muscle securing mitral valve for left ventricle ejection. Critical for oxygenated blood flow. Athletes benefit from cardiac hypertrophy here.
External intercostal muscle
External intercostals are thin muscles between the ribs that elevate them during inhalation, aiding deep breathing for core stability in lifts. They're vital for endurance athletes needing efficient oxygen uptake. Fitness training enhances respiratory muscle power.
Internal intercostal muscle
Internal intercostals between ribs assist expiration and stabilize chest in lifts.
Lateral papillary muscle of left ventricle
Papillary muscle in heart's left ventricle anchors mitral valve to prevent backflow. Endurance training strengthens indirectly.
pectoralis major
The massive pectoralis major covers the chest, powering arm adduction, flexion, and rotation for bench presses and push-ups. It's the prime mover for upper body pushing strength in fitness. Building it creates that powerful chest aesthetic.

Chest Pain Guide

Common causes and relief

Activities & Sports

See which activities use Innermost intercostal muscle

Pinpoint·Interactive 3D Anatomy & Exercise Guide