Multifidus
Musculus multifidus
The multifidus is a deep, segmental muscle that bridges only a few vertebrae at a time, lying beneath the erector spinae. It provides fine-grained, segment-by-segment stabilization of the spine and contributes to extension and rotation control. As part of the deep-core unit alongside the transversus abdominis, diaphragm, and pelvic floor, it is key to lumbar stability and is emphasized in rehab and anti-movement core training.
- Actions
- Spinal extension, Contralateral trunk rotation, Lateral flexion, Segmental spinal stabilization
- Origin
- Sacrum, posterior superior iliac spine, mammillary processes of lumbar vertebrae, transverse processes of thoracic vertebrae, and articular processes of cervical vertebrae
- Insertion
- Spinous processes of vertebrae 2-4 segments above the origin
- Innervation
- Medial branches of the posterior rami of spinal nerves
- Blood supply
- Lumbar, subcostal, and posterior intercostal arteries
Antagonists Rectus Abdominis
Exercises (2)
Assists in