The coccygeus is a muscle located in the pelvic floor. It is a small triangular muscle situated posterior to the levator ani muscle group. It originates from the ischial spines and inserts onto the inferior end of the sacrum and coccyx (see figure 1).
The coccygeus muscle plays an important role in supporting the pelvic viscera and flexing the coccyx. It is innervated by the anterior rami of S4 and S5, and its blood supply is provided by the inferior vesical, inferior gluteal, and pudendal arteries.
The coccygeus muscle is an important factor in maintaining the stability of the pelvic floor. Its primary role is to support the organs in the pelvic cavity, and provide flexion of the coccyx. As such, it is an integral part of the functioning of the lower body and must be kept in optimal condition.
The coccygeus muscle is part of a complex network of muscles in the pelvic floor, which includes the levator ani, gluteus maximus, and other muscles. This interconnected group of muscles helps to support the organs in the pelvic cavity and prevents them from falling forward or backward. Additionally, these muscles help to provide stability for the pelvic girdle and can contribute to the overall posture of the body.
The coccygeus muscle is important for proper urinary and fecal continence, as it helps to hold the pelvic organs in place and prevent them from leaking. It also helps to stabilize the sacroiliac joint, which connects the sacrum to the iliac bones. This joint is important for physical activities such as walking, running, and jumping.
The coccygeus muscle is also important in childbirth, as it helps to support the uterus and prevent it from dropping out of the birth canal during delivery. The stretching that this muscle undergoes during labor is thought to contribute to urinary incontinence after childbirth.
The coccygeus muscle can be strengthened through physical therapy and exercises designed to target the pelvic floor. These exercises can help to improve bladder and bowel control, reduce pelvic pain, and improve overall pelvic health. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional prior to beginning any exercise program.
The coccygeus muscle is a vital part of the body's pelvic floor. Its role is to provide support for the organs in the pelvic cavity, and to help maintain pelvic stability and urinary and fecal continence. It can be strengthened through a variety of exercises and physical therapy exercises, and it is important to consult with a healthcare professional prior to beginning any exercise program.
Figure 1 – Superior (bird's eye) view of the pelvic floor. Note the prerectal fibres of the puborectalis.
