Deep muscles, superficial muscles and pudendal nerve - Week 4

Question 1

Coccygeus is a deep pelvic floor muscle and assists in defaecation and parturition how?

Answer 1

Acts to draw the coccyx anteriorly following these events

Question 2

What does levator ani muscles do during a cough, sneeze or to prevent pooping

Answer 2

The levator ani acts as a sling that wraps around the anal canal and lifts anteriorly and superiorly

Refer to a picture

Question 3

Why is incontinence more common in females?

Answer 3

Men’s puborectalis wraps around the penile shaft inside the body allowing for greater contraction around the urethra.

Question 4

How would a physio contribute to helping with incontinence?

Answer 4

Determining if there is a tear in the pelvic floor muscles OR if they are not working properly. Strengthening them may help incontinence.

Question 5

Functions of the pelvic floor muscles?

Answer 5

Support abdominal structures, assist with sexual function, assist with continence, work in conjunction with abdominal muscles and diaphragm

Question 6

Which course does the pudendal nerve take and what does it supply?

Answer 6

Branches off anterior rami of S2-4, posterior to sacrospinous ligament, enters the lesser sciatic foramen, medial to ischial ramus and public ramus.

Innervates
Motor supply - superficial pelvic floor muscles
Sensory supply - skin external genitalia