Mnemonic

Accessory Muscles of Respiration

A memory aid for the muscles recruited in laboured breathing.

Expansion

Sternocleidomastoid, scalenes and pectorals for inspiration; abdominal wall for expiration

Expansion

Accessory inspiratory muscles - they elevate the ribs and sternum:

  • Sternocleidomastoid
  • Scalenus anterior, medius and posterior
  • Pectoralis major and minor
  • Serratus anterior
  • Latissimus dorsi

Expiratory muscles - quiet expiration is passive, but forced expiration uses:

  • Rectus abdominis, external and internal oblique, transversus abdominis
  • Internal intercostals

The pectoral and latissimus muscles only help if their usual insertion is fixed, which is exactly why a breathless patient braces their arms on a table or on their knees. That tripod position converts the limb muscles into rib elevators.