Superficial Muscles of the Posterior Neck and Thorax

Question 1

Latissimus Dorsi

Answer 1

Origin: broad origin via lumbodorsal fascia along lower vertebrae and ilia crest
Insertion: intertubercular groove of humerus
Action: extends, adducts, and medially rotates arm

Question 2

Trapezius

Answer 2

Origin: occipital bone inferior along cervical and thoracic vertebrae
Insertion: lateral clavicle and acromion and spine of scapula
Action: raises, adducts, and rotates scapula, depending on which portion of the muscle contracts; responsible for many shoulder movements

Question 3

Levator Scapulae

Answer 3

Origin: Transverse processes of C1-C4
Insertion: superior/medial scapula
Action: elevates and adducts scapula

Question 4

Rhomboids

Answer 4

Origin: spinous processes of C7-T5
Insertion: medial border of scapula
Action: retracts and rotates scapula