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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
Related Blogs
Images
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Videos
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