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Erector Spinae

Musculi erector spinae

Erector Spinae

The erector spinae is a group of three muscle columns (iliocostalis, longissimus, spinalis) running either side of the spine from the sacrum to the skull. They extend and laterally flex the spine and, just as importantly, resist flexion to keep the trunk rigid under load. They are heavily trained by deadlifts, good mornings, back extensions, and any braced hinge, and are central to posterior-chain and spinal-stability strength.

Actions
Spinal extension, Lateral flexion of the trunk (unilateral), Trunk rotation (unilateral), Controls flexion eccentrically, Maintains upright posture
Origin
Common tendon from the sacrum, iliac crest, spinous processes of lumbar and lower thoracic vertebrae, and supraspinous ligament
Insertion
Ribs, transverse and spinous processes of thoracic and cervical vertebrae, and mastoid process of the temporal bone
Innervation
Posterior rami of spinal nerves (segmental)
Blood supply
Posterior intercostal, subcostal, lumbar, and lateral sacral arteries
Heads
Iliocostalis, Longissimus, Spinalis

Exercises (48)

Trains as a primary mover

Assists in

corebackposterior-chainspinal-extensiondeadlift