External Intercostal Muscles

Region: Chest Muscles · All chest muscles

External Intercostal Muscles at a glance

OriginLower border of the rib above
InsertionUpper border of the rib below, fibres running down and forward
ActionsElevate the ribs, expanding the chest in quiet breathing in
Nerve supplyIntercostal nerves

◆ Good to know

Their fibres run in the same direction as putting your hands into your pockets; the rib's neurovascular bundle shelters under the lower border of the rib above.

Please note: This page is an anatomy education summary for students and curious readers, not medical advice. Attachment points are given in their classic short form; individual anatomy varies, and detailed dissection-level descriptions belong in an anatomy atlas.