Hjälpmuskulatur

Hjälpmuskulatur, or accessory muscles, refers to muscles that assist a primary muscle group during a specific movement. While the primary muscles are the main drivers of an action, the hjälpmuskulatur provides additional force or stability. These muscles are often recruited when greater effort is required, or when the primary muscles are fatigued or compromised.

In respiration, for instance, the diaphragm and intercostal muscles are the primary muscles of breathing. However, during strenuous activity or respiratory distress, accessory muscles of the neck, chest, and abdomen become involved. These can include the sternocleidomastoid, scalenes, pectoralis major and minor, and abdominal muscles. Their contraction helps to increase the volume of the thoracic cavity, facilitating a deeper and more rapid inhalation.

Similarly, in limb movements, accessory muscles play a role. For example, when lifting a heavy weight, muscles that might not be the primary movers can contract to stabilize the joint or provide compensatory force. Understanding the function of hjälpmuskulatur is important in fields like physical therapy, sports medicine, and biomechanics, as it helps in diagnosing and treating conditions related to muscle weakness or overuse. The recruitment and efficiency of these accessory muscles can indicate an individual's overall strength and physical condition.