Inferior oblique

A muscle that plays a crucial role in the movement of the eye.

The inferior oblique is an extraocular muscle responsible for the upward and outward movement of the eye. It connects to the eye's sclera and is one of the six muscles that control eye motion. This muscle originates from the maxillary bone, runs beneath the eye, and attaches to the posterior part of the eye's outer layer, allowing for its distinctive rotational and vertical movements.

Terminologia Anatomica

musculus obliquus inferior

System

Muscular system

Function

The primary function of the inferior oblique muscle is to enable the eye to perform specific movements, particularly adduction (movement toward the nose) and elevation (movement upward). It is essential for the coordination of eye movements, aiding in tasks such as tracking moving objects and maintaining visual focus during head movements. Its role becomes apparent during activities that require complex visual coordination, such as reading, playing sports, or driving. Dysfunction of the inferior oblique can result in double vision or difficulty in maintaining proper visual fixation, impacting overall visual performance and coordination.

Location

The inferior oblique muscle is located under the eye, originating from the maxilla, which is the upper jawbone. It runs in a lateral and posterior direction, inserting itself at the outer layer of the sclera, which is the white part of the eye. This muscle's unique positioning allows it to exert its effects not just on vertical movement, but also on eye rotation, contributing to the overall control of gaze direction from various angles.

Did You Know?

The inferior oblique is unique among the extraocular muscles because it is the only muscle that originates from within the orbit (eye socket) rather than the back part.
This muscle plays an important role in maintaining binocular vision, allowing both eyes to work together effectively for depth perception.
An imbalance in the function of the inferior oblique can lead to a condition known as 'vertical strabismus,' where the eyes misalign vertically.