Superior rectus

A muscle responsible for elevating the eye and assisting in its inward rotation.

The superior rectus is one of the extraocular muscles that control eye movement. Positioned at the top of the eye, it plays a pivotal role in directing visual gaze upward and slightly inward. This muscle is essential for various visual tasks, contributing to both basic and complex movements of the eye.

Terminologia Anatomica

musculus rectus superior

System

Muscular system

Function

The main function of the superior rectus muscle is to facilitate the upward movement of the eyeball, also known as elevation. In addition to this primary role, it aids in adduction, which is the inward movement of the eye toward the nose. This dual functionality is essential for maintaining proper alignment during activities that require precise vision, such as reading and focusing on close objects. The superior rectus muscle works in concert with the other extraocular muscles to allow smooth and coordinated eye movements. Disorders or dysfunctions of this muscle can lead to issues such as strabismus, where the eyes fail to align properly, affecting depth perception and visual acuity. Through its intricate coordination with thebrain and other muscles, the superior rectus ensures that individuals can navigate their visual environments effectively.

Location

The superior rectus is located on the upper part of the eyeball. Specifically, it originates from the common tendinous ring, which is situated at the back of the orbit (eye socket), and extends forward to insert onto the superior part of the sclera (the white outer coating of the eyeball). This positioning allows the muscle to exert its effects directly on the eye, making it vital for elevating the visual field. The proximity of the superior rectus to other extraocular muscles means that it works closely with them, ensuring fluid and coordinated movements of the eye.

Did You Know?

The superior rectus muscle is one of six extraocular muscles that control the movement of the eye.
This muscle is primarily innervated by the oculomotor nerve (cranial nerve III).
The superior rectus muscle is crucial for upward gaze, necessary for activities such as driving, watching a movie, or looking at a screen.
In some cases of exophthalmos (protrusion of the eyeball), the superior rectus can become overactive, leading to difficulties in eye coordination.