Serratus posterior superior (left) (Musculus serratus posterior superior)
Educational content only — not medical advice.
Anatomy
A thin sheet beneath the rhomboids from the lower cervical and upper thoracic spine to ribs 2–5; regarded as a proprioceptive accessory inspiratory muscle lifting the upper ribs in deep breathing.
Origin & insertion
Spinous processes of C7–T3 and the nuchal ligament.
Action
Slightly elevates ribs 2–5 widening the upper chest; its proprioceptive role outweighs its force.
Innervation
Intercostal nerves T2–T5 (presumed).
Clinical notes
Its trigger pain beneath the rhomboids is mistaken for simple muscular ache; clinically minor but known to posterior-approach spine surgeons.
Related structures
Educational references
FAQ
What is the role of the Serratus posterior superior (left)?
A thin sheet beneath the rhomboids from the lower cervical and upper thoracic spine to ribs 2–5; regarded as a proprioceptive accessory inspiratory muscle lifting the upper ribs in deep breathing.
Why is the Serratus posterior superior (left) clinically important?
Its trigger pain beneath the rhomboids is mistaken for simple muscular ache; clinically minor but known to posterior-approach spine surgeons.
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