The iliococcygeus is a muscle of the pelvic floor, forming the posterolateral part of the levator ani muscle group. It is an important structure in the body responsible for supporting and elevating the pelvic floor and anorectal canal.
The iliococcygeus muscle originates from the ischial spines and the posterior tendinous arch of the internal obturator fascia. It then inserts onto the coccyx, perineal body and anococcygeal ligament, while also blending with the fibres of the contralateral muscle in the midline of the pelvic floor.
The primary action of the iliococcygeus muscle is to elevate the pelvic floor and anorectal canal.
The nerve to levator ani and branches of the pudendal nerve innervate the iliococcygeus muscle.
The iliococcygeus muscle is supplied by the inferior gluteal, inferior vesical and pudendal arteries.
The iliococcygeus is an important muscle of the pelvic floor muscle group, as it is responsible for providing stability and assisting with the elevation of the pelvic floor and anorectal canal. The tightening and relaxation of the pelvic floor muscles is important for a variety of normal body functions, including assisting with bowel and bladder continence.
The pelvic floor muscle group is made up of several muscles, including the iliococcygeus, pubococcygeus, puborectalis, and the coccygeus. When all of these muscles work in coordination, they help to support the pelvic organs, maintain pelvic floor tone, and control urinary and fecal continence. In cases of pelvic organ prolapse or urinary incontinence, the muscles may be weakened or damaged, causing a disruption in their normal functioning.
Therefore, it is important to maintain the health and strength of the pelvic floor muscles, and exercises can be done to help strengthen and tone the pelvic floor muscles. These exercises are referred to as ‘Kegel’ exercises, and can be done anywhere without anyone else noticing. They involve contracting and relaxing the pelvic floor muscles in a rhythmic pattern, which helps to increase the strength and tone of the muscles.
The iliococcygeus is an important muscle of the pelvic floor, and it is important to maintain its health and strength for a variety of body functions. Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles through Kegel exercises can help to restore the normal functioning of the iliococcygeus and other muscles of the pelvic floor.
