Longissimus Muscle

Authors
Affiliations

Nathaniel Yomogida, B.S., SPT

Doctor of Physical Therapy

B.S. in Kinesiology

Chloë Kerstein, B.S., SPT

Doctor of Physical Therapy

B.A. in Neuroscience

OIAN

Figure 1: Schematic view of the intermediate intrinsic muscles of the back (Erector spinae)1
Figure 2: Intermediate intrinsic muscles of the back / Erector spinae (Posterior view)1
Table 1: Longissimus muscles
Muscle Origin Insertion Innervation Action

Longissimus Capitis

Origin

T1-T3 (TP), C4-C7 (TP & articular process)1

Insertion

Temporal bone (Mastoid process)

Innervation

Spinal nn. C1-L5 (Posterior Rami, lateral branches)1

Action

  • BIL: Extends head1
  • UNIL: Flexes and I/L rotation1

Longissimus Cervicis

Origin

T1-T6 (TP)1

Insertion

C2-C5 (TP)1

Innervation

Spinal nn. C1-L5 (Posterior Rami, lateral branches)1

Action

  • BIL: Extends spine1
  • UNIL: I/L SB1

Longissimus Thoracis

Origin

Sacrum; Iliac crest; Lumbar vertebrae (SP); Lower thoracic vertebrae (TP)1

Insertion

2nd-12th ribs; Thoracic & Lumbar vertebrae (TP)1

Innervation

Spinal nn. C1-L5 (Posterior Rami, lateral branches)1

Action

  • BIL: Extends spine1
  • UNIL: I/L SB1

References

1.
Gilroy AM, MacPherson BR, Wikenheiser JC, Voll MM, Wesker K, Schünke M, eds. Atlas of Anatomy. 4th ed. Thieme; 2020.

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