GENERAL INFORMATION
The iliococcygeus is a muscle located in the pelvic region. It is one of the muscles that make up the levator ani, which forms the pelvic diaphragm. The iliococcygeus muscle plays a vital role in supporting the pelvic organs as well as maintaining continence.
ORIGIN
This muscle originates from the tendinous arch of the obturator fascia as well as the ischial spine.
INSERTION POINT
The muscle inserts into the coccyx (tailbone) and the anococcygeal raphe, a fibrous structure between the coccyx and the anus.
MAJOR ARTERIES
The iliococcygeus muscle receives its blood supply from branches of the internal iliac artery. It includes the superior rectal artery and the internal pudendal artery.
NEURAL INNERVATION
This muscle is innervated by the ventral rami of the lower sacral nerves (S3-S5) through the pudendal nerve.
TRIGGER POINT
Trigger points can develop in this muscle, causing localised pain and tenderness. These trigger points can be associated with muscle overuse, poor posture, or trauma.
CONCENTRIC FUNCTION
Contraction of the iliococcygeus muscle elevates the pelvic floor, supporting the pelvic organs and contributing to continence and stability.
ECCENTRIC FUNCTION
This muscle has a limited eccentric function during controlled relaxation of the pelvic floor and descent of the pelvic organs.
ISOMETRIC FUNCTION
Isometric contraction of the iliococcygeus muscle provides stability and support to the pelvic floor, maintaining proper alignment and preventing excessive movement.
RELATED MUSCLE SCIENTIFIC NAMES
- Iliococcygeus: This muscle is a crucial part of the levator ani group, providing structural support and contributing to the elevation of the pelvic floor.
- Iliococcygeus muscle of levator ani: As part of the levator ani, this muscle assists in maintaining continence and also supporting pelvic organs.
ANTAGONIST
- Coccygeus muscle: Assists in supporting the pelvic organs and opposes the action of the iliococcygeus.
COMMON INJURIES
- Pelvic floor dysfunction: Dysfunction or weakness of the iliococcygeus muscle and other pelvic floor muscles can lead to issues such as urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, or fecal incontinence.
EXERCISES
- Pelvic floor exercises (Kegel exercises): Engaging and strengthening the pelvic floor muscles, including the iliococcygeus, through contraction and relaxation exercises.
- Squats: Compound exercise that activates the muscles of the pelvic floor, including the iliococcygeus, along with the lower body muscles.
- Bridges: Exercise that engages the pelvic floor and core muscles, including the iliococcygeus, by lifting the pelvis off the ground while lying on the back.
STRETCHES
- Child’s pose: Sitting back on the heels with the knees spread apart and the torso folded forward, stretching the pelvic floor as well as the iliococcygeus muscle.
- Seated forward fold: Sitting with legs extended and folding the torso forward, reaching towards the toes, stretching the pelvic floor as well as the iliococcygeus muscle.