Skip navigation | ||
![]() |
![]() | ![]() |
|
||
![]() |
||
Medical Encyclopedia |
|
Other encyclopedia topics: | A-Ag Ah-Ap Aq-Az B-Bk Bl-Bz C-Cg Ch-Co Cp-Cz D-Di Dj-Dz E-Ep Eq-Ez F G H-Hf Hg-Hz I-In Io-Iz J K L-Ln Lo-Lz M-Mf Mg-Mz N O P-Pl Pm-Pz Q R S-Sh Si-Sp Sq-Sz T-Tn To-Tz U V W X Y Z 0-9 |
![]() ![]() |
Contents of this page: | |
Alternative names
Retractions of the chest musclesDefinition Return to top
Intercostal retractions are the inward movement of the muscles between the ribs as a result of reduced pressure in the chest cavity; usually a sign of difficulty with breathing.Considerations Return to top
The chest wall is flexible, which allows for normal breathing. Cartilage that attaches the ribs to the sternum (breast bone) allows free movement of bony structures so that the rib cage can expand and contract. During breathing, the muscles between the ribs (intercostal muscles) contract and pull the rib cage upward while the diaphragm moves downward, thus increasing the volume of the chest cavity and causing air to be drawn into the lungs.Common Causes Return to top
Home Care Return to top
This is an emergency requiring immediate medical attention.
Call your health care provider if Return to top
What to expect at your health care provider's office Return to top
In emergency situations, interventions will be taken first to help with the breathing. This may include oxygen, medications to reduce swelling, or other measures.
Home | Health Topics | Drug Information | Encyclopedia | Dictionary | News | Directories | Other Resources | |
Copyright | Privacy | Accessibility | Selection Guidelines U.S. National Library of Medicine, 8600 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20894 National Institutes of Health | Department of Health & Human Services |
Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |