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External Anal Sphincter

Region

Origin & Insertion

Encircles anal canal; anchored to perineal body and anococcygeal ligament

Synergistic Muscles

Puborectalis

Joints

Anorectal junction

Primary Actions

Voluntary control of defecation

Nerve & Spinal Segment

Inferior rectal branch of pudendal nerve

Sacral plexus; S2–S4

Interesting

Key for fecal continence; contracts reflexively. [Moore’s]

Reversal of Action

Activate during trunk movement to brace

Common Dysfunctions

Fecal incontinence, loss of rectal tone

How to Stretch

Contract/relax cycles during pelvic floor release

Trigger Points

How to Strengthen

Anal sphincter squeezes with breathing

Concentric Action

Tighten anus (squeeze to hold gas)

Applications:

Critical for bowel continence and neurological retraining

Eccentric Action

Release tension post-squeeze

Isotonic Action

Flutter squeezes with relaxation

Related Conditions

Neurological injury, obstetric trauma

Isometric Action

Sustain contraction for continence

Exercise Ideas

Bowel Health, Continence, Core Rehab

Spry Juncture, LLC

How to Evolve Gracefully