What is the origin of the internal obliques?

The internal obliques originate from the inguinal ligament, which is a band running from the pubic bone to the iliac crest. This ligament provides an essential anchor point for the muscle fibers that compose the internal obliques. In addition to originating from the inguinal ligament, these muscles also arise from the iliac crest and the thoracolumbar fascia, contributing to their role in trunk rotation, lateral flexion, and the maintenance of abdominal pressure.

While the pubic crest, ribs 5-12, and xiphoid process of the sternum are connected to different abdominal and thoracic structures, they do not serve as the primary origin for the internal obliques. Understanding the correct origin helps in identifying the functional anatomy of the muscle and its role during movements involving the trunk, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of massage techniques used on athletes or individuals engaging in physical activities.