intercostal
/ˌɪntərˈkɑstəl/
adjective
- Located between the ribs.
- The intercostal muscles help expand and contract the rib cage during breathing.
- The doctor examined the intercostal spaces to check for any swelling.
- He felt a sharp pain in his intercostal area after coughing too hard.
noun
- An intercostal muscle or nerve; a structure located between the ribs.
- An injury to an intercostal can cause pain when twisting the torso.
- The physical therapist massaged the intercostals to relieve tension.
- The intercostals are essential for forced breathing, like when you exercise.