Semispinalis Thoracis (Musculus semispinalis thoracis)
Educational content only — not medical advice.
Anatomy
The superficial member of the deep transversospinalis group in the dorsal thorax, spanning four to six vertebral segments. It originates from the transverse processes of the lower thoracic vertebrae (T6–T10) and ascends obliquely to insert into the spinous processes of the upper thoracic and lower cervical vertebrae (C6–T4). It extends the thoracic spine and rotates the thoracic vertebrae to the opposite side.
Origin & insertion
From the transverse processes of the sixth through tenth thoracic vertebrae (T6–T10), into the spinous processes of the upper four thoracic (T1–T4) and lower two cervical (C6–C7) vertebrae.
Action
Extends the thoracic and lower cervical vertebral column; rotates the vertebral column to the contralateral side.
Innervation
Posterior rami of thoracic spinal nerves (T1–T6).
Clinical notes
Transversospinalis dysfunction impairs segmental spinal stabilization, leading to localized intervertebral mechanical dysfunction and axial back pain.
Related structures
Educational references
FAQ
What is the role of the Semispinalis Thoracis?
The superficial member of the deep transversospinalis group in the dorsal thorax, spanning four to six vertebral segments. It originates from the transverse processes of the lower thoracic vertebrae (T6–T10) and ascends obliquely to insert into the spinous processes of the upper thoracic and lower cervical vertebrae (C6–T4). It extends the thoracic spine and rotates the thoracic vertebrae to the opposite side.
Why is the Semispinalis Thoracis clinically important?
Transversospinalis dysfunction impairs segmental spinal stabilization, leading to localized intervertebral mechanical dysfunction and axial back pain.
Source & license
BodyParts3D, © The Database Center for Life Science licensed under CC Attribution 4.0 International (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/). license details