Semispinalis

Musculi semispinalis

Core CoreBackNeckPosterior Chain

The semispinalis is a deep transversospinal muscle group of the upper back and neck that extends the thoracic and cervical spine and the head while rotating them to the opposite side. The thick semispinalis capitis is a major extensor of the head and a key contributor to neck strength and upright posture. It is relevant to neck training, head carriage, and resisting forward-head positions under load.

Actions

Extension of the thoracic and cervical spine, Extension of the head, Contralateral rotation of the head, neck, and trunk

Origin

Transverse processes of the lower cervical and thoracic vertebrae (T1-T10) and the articular processes of the lower cervical vertebrae

Insertion

Spinous processes of the upper thoracic and cervical vertebrae and, for the capitis, the occipital bone between the superior and inferior nuchal lines

Innervation

Posterior (dorsal) rami of the cervical and thoracic spinal nerves

Blood supply

Deep cervical, vertebral, and posterior intercostal arteries

Heads

Semispinalis thoracis, Semispinalis cervicis, Semispinalis capitis

Wikipedia ↗

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