Trigger Points that refer pain to the Abdomen / Lower Thorax
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Rectus Abdominis (Upper Fibers):
Refers deep aching or cramping pain to the epigastric region and lower sternum,
External Oblique (Upper Fibers):
Refers pain to the lower ribs and upper lateral abdomen,
Internal Oblique (Upper Fibers):
Deep, cramping pain in the upper abdominal wall and lower rib cage,
Serratus Anterior (Lower Fibers):
Refers pain wrapping from the lower ribs around to the anterior upper abdomen,
Sharp, localized pain during breathing or movement, often mistaken for internal organ pain,
Diaphragm (Costal Attachments):
Can mimic upper abdominal pain, particularly under the ribs,
Thoracic Paraspinals (T8–T12):
Referred visceral-type pain to the abdomen and lower thorax,
Multifidi (Lower Thoracic / Upper Lumbar):
Can mimic deep abdominal discomfort,
Via neurogenic mechanisms can mimic epigastric distress (Upper mid abdomen),
Pectoralis Major (Lower Sternal Fibers):
In rare cases, can cause referred pain to the upper abdomen when very active,
Midline or lateral pain spreading into the thoracolumbar junction and lower ribs,
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Pain Referred to the Central Abdomen (Periumbilical Area)
Rectus Abdominis (Middle Fibers):
Refers pain to the area around the navel and adjacent abdominal wall,
External Oblique (Middle Fibers):
Wraps pain around the waistline, affecting both sides of the central abdomen,
Internal Oblique (Middle Fibers):
Refers deep aching pain to the sides of the umbilical region,
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Pain Referred to the Lower Abdomen and Groin
Rectus Abdominis (Lower Fibers):
Refers to the suprapubic region and may mimic bladder pain or menstrual cramps,
External Oblique (Lower Fibers):
Refers to the inguinal region and anterior iliac crest area,
Internal Oblique (Lower Fibers):
Refers to the lower abdomen and groin area,
Deep aching or stabbing pain in the lower abdomen, groin, and lower thoracic spine,
Can mimic pain deep within the lower abdomen, particularly when the hip is flexed,
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Pain Referred to the Flank and Lateral Lower Thorax
Latissimus Dorsi (Lower Fibers):
Refers pain along the posterior and lateral lower thorax,
Quadratus Lumborum (Superior Fibers):
Refers pain to the lower ribcage and flank, often described as a deep ache,
Can cause deep, poorly localized pain at the lower posterior ribs and flank area,
Midline or lateral pain spreading into the thoracolumbar junction and lower ribs,