Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/1299745
C h e c k o u t A B M P 's P o c k e t P a t h o l o g y a t w w w. a b m p . c o m / a b m p - p o c k e t - p a t h o l o g y - a p p . 43 Palpating the External Oblique Positioning: client supine. 1. Standing at the client's side, face the abdomen and locate the inferior edge of the anterolateral rib cage with the palm of your hand. 2. Slide your hand inferiorly into the space between the iliac crest and inferior edge of the rib cage. 3. Locate the sloping fibers of the external oblique as it angles anteriorly and inferiorly from the lateral rib cage toward the linea alba. 4. The client gently curls the trunk, lifting the shoulder toward the opposite hip to ensure proper location. Client Homework Bilateral stretch: extension 1. Stand or sit with good upright alignment. 2. Place both palms on your low back, just above the buttocks. 3. Begin by looking up at the ceiling, then, as you exhale, gently curl your spine back, opening up your chest and abdomen. Unilateral stretch: lateral flexion 1. Stand or sit with good upright alignment. 2. Elongate your spine as you take in a deep breath. 3. As you exhale, curl your spine to one side as you reach your shoulder toward your hip. 4. Take several breaths as you relax and lengthen the muscles on the opposite side. 5. Return to upright position and repeat on the other side. Editor's note: The Client Homework element in Functional Anatomy is intended as a take-home resource for clients experiencing issues with the profiled muscle. The stretches identified in Functional Anatomy should not be performed within massage sessions or progressed by massage therapists, in order to comply with state laws and maintain scope of practice.