What is the primary function of the intercostal muscles?
Intercostal muscles are defined as the set of 22 pairs of tiny and small muscles that are found between the ribs. There is no requirement or need to exercise to strengthen these muscles.
The intercostal muscles are involved in breathing that is the inspiration (inhalation) and expiration (exhalation). Thus, the intercostal muscles will help expand and shrink the chest cavity; thus, facilitating the breathing process.
During inhalation, the internal intercostal muscles will relax, whereas the external intercostal muscles will contract, thus pulling the ribcage upwards and outwards. Also, the diaphragm contraction occurs, and it moves downwards, increasing the lung volume and decreasing the air pressure inside the lungs, thus, causing movement of air into the lungs.
During exhalation, the internal intercostal muscles will contract, whereas the external intercostal muscles will relax, thus pulling the ribcage downwards and inwards. Also, the diaphragm's relaxation occurs, and it moves upwards, decreasing the lung volume and increasing the air pressure inside the lungs, thus, causing movement of air out of the lungs.
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