Spinalis (Musculus spinalis)
Educational content only — not medical advice.
Anatomy
The medialmost column of the erector spinae musculature, lying intimately against the spinous processes of the vertebral column. It runs in the groove between the spine and the longissimus muscle, composed of interlinked fascicles divided anatomically into thoracis, cervicis and capitis segments. Bilateral contraction straightens and extends the vertebral column, while unilateral action contributes to slight lateral bending.
Origin & insertion
From the spinous processes of the upper lumbar and lower thoracic vertebrae, ascending into the spinous processes of the upper thoracic vertebrae.
Action
Extends the vertebral column and maintains dorsal alignment of the spinal column.
Innervation
Posterior rami of thoracic and lumbar spinal nerves.
Clinical notes
Spinalis muscle contracture is commonly seen in dorsal kyphotic decompensation and ankylosing spondylitis as the body attempts to resist anterior spinal collapse.
Related structures
Educational references
FAQ
What is the role of the Spinalis?
The medialmost column of the erector spinae musculature, lying intimately against the spinous processes of the vertebral column. It runs in the groove between the spine and the longissimus muscle, composed of interlinked fascicles divided anatomically into thoracis, cervicis and capitis segments. Bilateral contraction straightens and extends the vertebral column, while unilateral action contributes to slight lateral bending.
Why is the Spinalis clinically important?
Spinalis muscle contracture is commonly seen in dorsal kyphotic decompensation and ankylosing spondylitis as the body attempts to resist anterior spinal collapse.
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