Roberts Physical Therapy & Massage

02/15/2026

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✨ Iliocostalis

-The Iliocostalis is a member of the Erector Spinae (Paraspinal*) group, composed of:
-Iliocostalis
-Longissimus
-Spinalis

*The term paraspinal usually denotes the muscles of the erector spinae group as well as the muscles of the transversospinalis group.

-The Iliocostalis has three parts: Iliocostalis Lumborum, Iliocostalis Thoracis, Iliocostalis Cervicis.

ATTACHMENTS:
-Sacrum and iliac crest to ribs to C4.
Sacrum, iliac crest, and ribs #3-12 to ribs #1-12 and transverse processes of C4-C7.

ACTIONS:
-Extends the neck and trunk at the spinal joints.
-Laterally flexes the neck and trunk at the spinal joints.
-Ipsilaterally rotates the neck and trunk at the spinal joints.
-Anteriorly tilts the pelvis at the lumbosacral joint.
-Ipsilaterally elevates the pelvis at the lumbosacral joint.

NOTES:
-The iliocostalis is the most lateral of the three subgroups of the erector spinae group.
-The name iliocostalis tells us that this muscle group attaches from the ilium to the ribs (cost means ribs).
-Some sources call the iliocostalis the iliocostocervicalis, indicating that this muscle group extends up into the cervical spine.
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🚨Please note that the use of this artwork requires proper credit to be given (Permission: Dr. Joe Muscolino. www.learnmuscles.com – art work Giovanni Rimasti)

02/15/2026

02/15/2026

02/15/2026

The image depicts the anatomy of the lower abdominal and inguinal region, focusing on the nerves of the lumbar plexus. The labeled structures include: Analysis by the_drjoe

1. *Psoas muscle* – a major hip flexor located in the posterior abdominal wall.
2. *Iliohypogastric nerve* – originates from L1, supplies sensory innervation to the lower abdominal skin and motor fibers to abdominal muscles.
3. *Ilioinguinal nerve* – also from L1, provides sensation to the inguinal region, upper medial thigh, and ge***al area.
4. *Genitofemoral nerve* – arises from L1–L2, divides into:
- *Ge***al branch*: supplies the cremaster muscle and scrotal/labial skin.
- *Femoral branch*: provides sensation to the anterior thigh.
5. *External inguinal ring* – the superficial opening of the inguinal canal through which the ilioinguinal and ge***al branch pass.

The diagram shows the spatial relationship of these nerves as they course through the psoas muscle and exit toward the inguinal region, highlighting their distribution to the abdominal wall and lower extremity.”

- thedrjoe

Image: Authors

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http://www.secretlifeoffascia.com/

02/14/2026

02/14/2026

Tibialis Anterior — Key Muscle of Ankle Control & Foot Clearance

This image highlights the tibialis anterior, the primary muscle of the anterior compartment of the leg and a crucial controller of ankle and foot mechanics during walking and running. It is especially important for foot clearance, shock absorption, and controlled lowering of the foot to the ground.

Anatomically, the tibialis anterior originates from the lateral condyle and upper lateral surface of the tibia, along with the interosseous membrane. Its muscle belly runs down the front of the shin and forms a tendon that passes across the front of the ankle under the extensor retinacula. It inserts mainly into the medial cuneiform and base of the first metatarsal.

Because of this line of pull, the tibialis anterior sits perfectly to control motion at the ankle and medial foot. It is innervated by the deep peroneal (fibular) nerve and supplied by the anterior tibial artery — consistent with the anterior compartment.

Functionally, the tibialis anterior produces ankle dorsiflexion and foot inversion. During gait, it is highly active at heel strike and during the swing phase. It eccentrically controls plantarflexion when the foot first contacts the ground, preventing a foot slap, and concentrically lifts the foot during swing for toe clearance.

Clinically, tibialis anterior weakness can contribute to foot drop, toe drag, and altered gait patterns. Overuse can lead to anterior shin pain and tendinopathy, especially in runners and individuals with sudden training-load increases.