External Oblique

Region: Abdominal & Pelvic Muscles · All abdominal & pelvic muscles

External Oblique at a glance

OriginOuter surfaces of ribs 5–12
InsertionLinea alba, pubic tubercle and front half of the iliac crest
ActionsRotates the trunk to the opposite side; Flexes and side-bends the trunk; Compresses the abdomen
Nerve supplyLower intercostal nerves (T7–T12)

◆ Good to know

Its free lower edge forms the inguinal ligament, and its aponeurosis forms the front wall of the inguinal canal — central to hernia anatomy.

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.