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--------------#--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Hosford Muscle Tables

This document details information about the skeletal muscles of the human body. Included is each
muscle's origin, insertion, action, blood supply and innervation.

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Online information at: http://www.ptcentral.com/muscles

1997 by Darryl Hosford, published on July 9, 1997

Muscle Table Introduction

Welcome to the Human Skeletal Muscle Tables!

Document Background:

This document details information about the skeletal muscles of the

human body. Included is each muscle's origin, insertion, action, blood
supply and innervation. The student should be reminded that there is
great variability in blood supply and innervation within a population
of individuals.

This document began as a personal study tool while I was taking Gross
Anatomy, in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at Slippery Rock
University of Pennsylvania.

Hints for Anatomy Study:

Daniels & Worthingham, Muscle Testing, 6th Ed.

W.B. Saunders Co. 1995.
Hollinshead, Textbook of Anatomy, 4th Ed.
Harper & Row Pub. 1985.
Hoppenfeld, Physical Examination of the Spine & Extremities.
Appleton & Lange. 1976.
Slippery Rock University, Doctor of Physical Therapy lecture notes,
1995-1996.
Stone & Stone, Atlas of the Skeletal Muscles.
Wm. C. Brown Pub. 1990.

1. Visualize as you memorize. A picture can really be worth a

thousand words! Save brain cells, sweat and tears by referring
to a good anatomy atlas as you study.
2. Review regularly. Spatially organize and order anatomical parts in
relation to each other, as if you were to construct a three
dimensional image in your mind.
3. Utilize a study group. Organize a group of fellow students
to regularly study, review and quiz over the anatomy
material. Information presented from a variety of
perspectives is often much easier to learn.

Online Anatomy Study Materials:

The muscle table information is also
available online, along with
many other materials at
PTCentral.
Clickable anatomy graphics are
provided on the web site, with
links to a wide variety of Internet
anatomy resources including
pictures and video.
We welcome your online visit!
http://ptcentral.com/muscles

References:

Copyright:
Individuals who download these tables may evaluate them for 10 days,
and after which the $2.00 shareware fee should be remitted. No part of
this document may be reproduced without permission from Darryl G.
Hosford. Please retain this information page with each reproduction of
the muscle tables, in whole or in part. Copyright 1997 by Darryl G.
Hosford, all rights reserved.

Happy studies, and I wish you the best of success.

Darryl Hosford
919 Liberty St. Ext.
Grove City, PA 16127
Email: muscles@ptcentral.com
Web: http://ptcentral.com/muscles

Online information at: http://www.ptcentral.com/muscles

1997 by Darryl Hosford, published on July 9, 1997

Muscle Table Page 1

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Table of Contents:
Superficial Back Musculature....................................................................1
Shoulder Girdle Musculature.....................................................................2
Pectoral Musculature ................................................................................2
Brachium Musculature ..............................................................................3
Antebrachial Flexor Musculature...............................................................3
Antebrachial Extensor Musculature...........................................................5
Hand & Wrist Musculature........................................................................6
Gluteal Musculature ..................................................................................7
Posterior Thigh Musculature .....................................................................8
Adductor (Anteromedial) Thigh Musculature.............................................8
Anterior Thigh Musculature.......................................................................9
Posterior Leg Musculature ......................................................................10
Lateral Leg Musculature..........................................................................11
Anterior Leg Musculature ........................................................................11
Foot Musculature ....................................................................................12
Splenius Musculature..............................................................................13

Erector Spinae Musculature....................................................................13

Transversospinal Musculature ................................................................14
Segmental (Deep Back) Musculature......................................................14
Suboccipital Musculature ........................................................................15
Prevertebral Musculature ........................................................................15
Anterolateral Neck Musculature ..............................................................15
Superficial Neck Musculature .................................................................16
Anterior Neck Musculature......................................................................16
Epicranial Musculature............................................................................17
Muscles of Facial Expression .................................................................17
Muscles of Mastication............................................................................18
Extraocular Musculature .........................................................................18
Laryngeal Musculature ............................................................................19
Intercostal Musculature...........................................................................19
Abdominal Musculature...........................................................................20
Posterior Abdominal Wall Musculature ...................................................20

Superficial Back Musculature

Muscle

Origin

Insertion

Action

Blood

Nerve

Trapezius

1. external occipital protuberance

2. medial 1/3 of the superior nuchal line
3. ligamentum nuchae (surrounding the
cervical spinous processes)
4. spinous processes of C1-T12

1. posterior, lateral 1/3 of the clavicle

2. medial margin of the acromion
3. superior spine of the scapula

1. elevates scapula and

2. upwardly rotates the scapula (upper
portion) (note: the glenoid fossa is the
reference for scapular rotation)
3. retracts scapula (all)
4. downwardly rotates the scapula (lower
portion)

transverse cervical
artery

1. motor: spinal
accessory (XI
cranial)
2. sensory: ventral
ramii of C3 & C4
(possibly C2)

Latissimus dorsi

1. spinous process of T7-L5

2. supraspinous ligament
3. upper 2-3 sacral segments
4. iliac crest
5. lower 3 or 4 ribs
6. inferior angle of the scapula

floor of the bicipital groove of the humerus

a portion of the crest of the lesser tubercle
(the bicipital groove is also known as the
intertubercular groove)

1. extends the arm (from a flexed position)

2. internally (medially) rotates the arm
3. adducts the arm
4. downwardly rotates the scapula

thoracodorsal artery

thoracodorsal nerve,
C6,7,8

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Muscle Table Page 2

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Shoulder Girdle Musculature

Muscle

Origin

Insertion

Action

Blood

Nerve

Levator scapulae

posterior tubercles of the transverse

processes of the upper 3 or 4 cervical
vertebrae

superior angle of scapula at and above the

scapular spine

1. elevates the scapula

2. extends and/or laterally flexes the neck
3. assists to downwardly rotate the scapula

transverse cervical
artery

Rhomboid minor

1. spinous process of C7 & T1

2. lower part of the ligamentum nuchae
3. supraspinous ligament

medial margin of the scapula at the root of

the spine

1. retracts & stabilizes the scapula

2. assists to downwardly rotate the scapula
3. assists to adduct the arm

Rhomboid major

1. spinous processes of T2-T5

2. supraspinous ligament

medial scapula from the scapular spine to

the inferior angle

Serratus anterior

outer surfaces and superior borders of the

upper 8 or 9 ribs

costal aspect of medial margin of the

scapula

1. retracts & stabilizes the scapula

2. assists to downwardly standing rotate
the scapula
3. assists to adduct the arm
1. protracts the scapula
2. stabilizes the scapula (preventing
winging of the scapula)
3. assists to upwardly rotate the scapula

Deltoid

deltoid tuberosity, on the lateral surface of

the shaft of the humerus

Supraspinatus

1. anterior portion: anterior border of the

lateral 1/3 of the clavicle
2. middle portion: lateral boarder of the
acromion process of the scapula
3. posterior portion: scapular spine
1. supraspinous fossa of the scapula

deep branch of
transverse cervical
artery or
dorsal scapular artery
deep branch of
transverse cervical
artery or
dorsal scapular artery
1. lateral thoracic
artery supplies the
upper part
2. thoracodorsal artery
supplies the lower
part
1. posterior humeral
circumflex artery
2. deltoid branch of
thoracoacromial
artery
suprascapular artery
(poorly supplied)

1. nerves off cervical

plexus, C3,4
2. dorsal scapular
nerve, C5
dorsal scapular nerve,
C5

Infraspinatus

1. infraspinous fossa of the scapula

Teres minor

middle half of the scapulas lateral margin

Teres major

lower third of the posterior surface of the

lateral margin of the scapula

Subscapularis

subscapular fossa on the anterior surface

of the scapula

1. uppermost of three facets of the greater

tubercle of humerus
2. capsule of the shoulder joint
1. middle facet of greater tubercle of
humerus
2. capsule of the shoulder joint
1. lowest of three facets of the greater
tubercle of humerus
2. capsule of the shoulder joint
medial lip of the bicipital groove of the
humerus (just medial to the insertion of
latissimus dorsi)
1. lesser tubercle of humerus
2. lower part of the capsule of the shoulder
joint

1. anterior portion: flexes and internally

rotates the arm
2. middle portion: abducts the arm
3. posterior portion: extends and externally
(laterally) rotates the arm
1. abducts the arm (almost solely for first
20)
2. stabilizes glenohumeral joint
1. externally rotates the arm
2. stabilizes the glenohumeral joint

1. externally rotates the arm

2. stabilizes the glenohumeral joint
1. internally rotates the arm
2. extends the arm (from a flexed position)
3. adducts the arm
1. internally rotates the arm
2. stabilizes the glenohumeral joint

dorsal scapular nerve,

C5

long thoracic nerve,

C5,6,7

axillary nerve,
1. anterior portion, C5
2. middle & posterior
portions, C5,6
suprascapular nerve,
C5,6

1. suprascapular
artery
2. scapular circumflex
artery
scapular circumflex
artery

suprascapular nerve,
C5,6

thoracodorsal artery

lower subscapular
nerve, C5,6

branches of
subscapular artery

upper & lower

subscapular
nerves, C5,6

axillary nerve, C5,6

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Muscle Table Page 3

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Pectoral Musculature
Muscle

Origin

Insertion

Action

Blood

Nerve

Subclavius

first rib about the junction of bone and

cartilage

lower surface of clavicle

assists to stabilize the clavicle

nerve to the
subclavius, C5,6

Pectoralis major

1. medial 1/3 of clavicle

2. anterior aspect of the sternum
3. upper 6 costal cartilages
4. aponeurosis of the external oblique

lateral lip of bicipital groove to the crest of

the greater tubercle

1. adducts the arm

2. internally rotates the arm
3. flexes the arm (from an extended
position)
4. depresses the arm & shoulder

outer surface of ribs 3-5 (may be variable)

medial aspect of coracoid process of the

scapula

clavicular branch of
thoracoacromial
artery
1. pectoralis branch of
thoracoacromial
artery
2. lateral thoracic
artery (lesser
supply)
lateral thoracic artery

Pectoralis minor

(clavicular fibers insert more distally;

sternal fibers more proximally)

1. depresses the scapula

2. downwardly rotates the scapula
2. assists to protract the scapula from a
retracted position
3. stabilizes the scapula

1. lateral pectoral
nerve, C5,6,7 to
clavicular portion
2. medial pectoral
nerve, C8,T1 to
sternal portion
medial pectoral nerve,
C8,T1

Brachium Musculature
Flexors:
Muscle

Origin

Insertion

Action

Blood

Nerve

Coracobrachialis

coracoid process of the scapula

Biceps brachii

1. long head- supraglenoid tubercle and

glenohumeral labrum
2. short head- tip of the coracoid process
of the scapula

medial shaft of the humerus at about its

middle
1. radial tuberosity
2. bicipital aponeurosis

muscular branches of
the brachial artery
muscular branches of
brachial artery

musculocutaneous
nerve, C5,6,(C7)
musculocutaneous
nerve, C5,6

Brachialis

1. lower 1/2 of anterior humerus

2. both intermuscular septa

1. ulnar tuberosity
2. coronoid process of ulna slightly

1. flexes the humerus

2. assists to adduct the humerus
1. flexes the forearm at the elbow (when
supinated)
2. supinates forearm from neutral
3. stabilizes anterior aspect of shoulder
4. flexes shoulder (weak if at all)
elbow flexion (major mover)

1. long head: infraglenoid tubercle of the

scapula
2. lateral head: upper half of the posterior
surface of the shaft of the humerus, and
the upper part of the lateral
intermuscular septum
3. medial head: posterior shaft of humerus,
distal to radial groove and both the
medial and lateral intermuscular septum
(deep to the long & lateral heads)
posterior surface of the lateral epicondyle
of the humerus

1. posterior surface of the olecranon

process of the ulna
2. deep fascia of the antebrachium

1. long head: extends the forearm at the

elbow, adducts the arm, may extend the
shoulder from a flexed position
2. lateral head: extends the forearm at the
elbow
3. medial head: extends the forearm at the
elbow

1. muscular branches
of the brachial
artery
2. superior ulnar
collateral artery
3. profunda brachii
artery

lateral surface of olecranon extending to

the lateral part of ulnar body

1. extends the forearm at the elbow

2. supports the elbow when in full
extension

middle collateral artery

from the profunda
brachii artery

Extensors:
Triceps brachii

Anconeus

1. muscular branches
of brachial artery
2. radial recurrent
artery

radial nerve, C7,8

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Muscle Table Page 4

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Antebrachial Flexor Musculature

Muscle

Origin

Insertion

Action

Blood

Nerve

Pronator teres

1. humeral head:
a) upper portion of medial epicondyle
via the CFT (common flexor tendon)
b) medial brachial intermuscular
septum
2. ulnar head: coronoid process of ulna
3. antebrachial fascia
1. medial epicondyle of the humerus via the
CFT
2. antebrachial fascia
1. medial epicondyle via the CFT
2. antebrachial fascia

lateral aspect of radius at the middle of the

shaft (pronator tuberosity)

1. pronates forearm (during rapid or forced

pronation)
2. weakly flexes the elbow

1. muscular branches
of ulnar artery
2. muscular branches
of radial artery

median nerve, C6,7

base of the 2nd and sometimes 3rd

metacarpals

1. flexes the hand at the wrist

2. radially deviates the wrist
3. may assist to pronate the forearm
flexes the hand at the wrist

muscular branches of
radial artery

1. flexes the hand at the wrist

2. ulnarly deviates the wrist
3. stabilizes wrist to permit powerful thumb
motion

muscular branches of
ulnar artery

ulnar nerve, C8,T1

both sides of the base of each middle

phalanx of the 4 fingers

1. flexes the proximal and middle

phalanges
2. flexes the wrist if fingers are extended

1. muscular branches
of ulnar artery
2. muscular branches
of radial artery

median nerve,
C7,8,T1

distal phalanx of medial 4 digits (through

the FDS tunnel)

1. flexes the distal IP joints and in so doing

flexes the proximal and middle IP joints
2. flexes the wrist if fingers are extended

palmar aspect of base of the distal phalanx

of thumb (deep to flexor retinaculum)

1. flexes the distal phalanx of the thumb (IP

joint)
2. flexes the other joints to the wrist (McP,
CMc and weakly at the wrist)

1. muscular branches
of the ulnar artery
2. muscular branches
of the radial artery
3. anterior
interosseous artery
(from ulnar artery)
1. muscular branches
of radial artery
2. anterior
interosseous artery

1. medial portion: ulnar

nerve, C8,T1
2. lateral portion:
anterior
interosseous
branch of median
nerve, C8,T1
anterior interosseous
branch of median
nerve, C8,T1

distal 1/4 anterolateral surface of radius

pronates the forearm and hand

Flexor carpi
radialis
Palmaris longus

Flexor carpi
ulnaris

Flexor digitorum
superficialis

Flexor digitorum
profundus

Flexor pollicis
longus

Pronator
quadratus

1. humeral head: medial epicondyle via the

CFT
2. ulnar head:
a) medial aspect of olecranon
b) proximal 3/5 of dorsal ulnar shaft
c) antebrachial fascia
1. humeral-ulnar head:
a) medial epicondyle via the CFT
b) medial boarder of base of coronoid
process of ulna
c) medial (ulnar) collateral ligament
d) antebrachial fascia
2. radial head: oblique line of radius along
its anterior surface
1. anterior & medial surface of proximal 3/4
ulna
2. adjacent interosseous membrane

1. middle anterior surface of the radius

2. interosseous membrane
3. (may also originate from lateral boarder
of coronoid process
4. or medial epicondyle)
distal 1/4 anteromedial surface of ulna

1. central portion of the flexor retinaculum

2. superficial portion of the palmar
aponeurosis
1. pisiform & hamate bones (via the
pisohamate ligament)
2. base of the 5th metacarpal (via the
pisometacarpal ligament)

muscular branches of
ulnar artery

1. anterior
interosseous artery
2. muscular branches
of the radial artery

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Muscle Table Page 5

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Antebrachial Extensor Musculature

Muscle

Origin

Insertion

Action

Blood

Nerve

Brachioradialis

1. upper lateral supracondylar ridge of

humerus (between the triceps and
brachialis muscles)
2. lateral intermuscular septum of humerus

1. superior aspect of styloid process of

radius
2. lateral side of the distal 1/2 to 1/3 of the
radius
3. antebrachial fascia
base of 2nd metacarpal

1. flexes the forearm at the elbow

2. pronates the forearm when supinated
3. supinates the forearm when pronated

radial recurrent artery

radial nerve, C5,6

Extensor carpi
radialis longus

1. lower lateral supracondylar ridge (below

the brachioradialis)
2. lateral intermuscular septum of humerus

Extensor carpi
radialis brevis

1. lateral epicondyle via the CET (common

extensor tendon)
2. radial collateral ligament
3. antebrachial fascia
1. lateral epicondyle via the CET
2. antebrachial fascia

Extensor
digitorum

Extensor digiti
minimi

1. lateral epicondyl via the CET

2. antebrachial fascia
3. ulnar aspect of extensor digitorum

Extensor carpi
ulnaris

1. 1st head: lateral epicondyle via CET

2. 2nd head: posterior body of ulna
3. antebrachial fascia
1. lateral epicondyle of humerus
2. supinator crest of ulna
3. radial collateral ligament
4. annular ligament
5. antebrachial fascia
1. posterior surfaces of ulna and radius
2. interosseous membrane
3. antebrachial fascia

Supinator

Abductor pollicis
longus

Extensor pollicis
brevis

Extensor pollicis
longus

Extensor indicis

base of 3rd metacarpal

1. extends the hand at the wrist

2. radially deviates the hand at the wrist
3. weakly flexes the forearm at the elbow
4. weakly supinates the forearm
1. extends the hand at the wrist
2. radially deviates the hand at the wrist

1. base of middle phalanx of each of the

four fingers (central band)
2. base of distal phalanx of each of the four
fingers (2 lateral bands)
1. base of middle phalanx of the 5th digit
(central band)
2. base of distal phalanx of the 5th digit (2
lateral bands)
medial side of base of the 5th metacarpal

1. extends the four medial digits

2. extends the wrist (if fingers flexed)
3. abducts the digits (spreads the digits as
it extends them)
1. extends the 5th digit
2. abducts the 5th digit

proximal portion of anterolateral surface of

the radius

lateral aspect of base of 1st metacarpal

1. posterior surfaces of radius (below

abductor pollicis longus)
2. interosseous membrane
3. antebrachial fascia
1. posterior surface of ulna
2. interosseous membrane
3. antebrachial fascia

base of proximal phalanx of thumb (often a

slip inserts into extensor pollicis longus
tendon)

1. posterior surface of ulna (distal to

extensor pollicis longus)
2. interosseous membrane
3. antebrachial fascia

base of middle and distal phalanx of the

index finger

distal phalanx of thumb

(or deep branch of

radial nerve)

deep branch of radial

nerve, C6,7

posterior interosseous
artery

posterior interosseous
nerve of radial
nerve, C6,7,8

supinates the forearm

radial recurrent artery

deep branch of radial

nerve, C6

1. abducts the 1st metacarpal

2. assists to extend & rotate the thumb
3. radially deviates the hand at the wrist
4. flexes the hand at the wrist
1. extends the proximal phalanx and 1st
metacarpal of the thumb
2. radially deviates the hand at the wrist

posterior interosseous
artery

posterior interosseous
nerve of radial
nerve, C6,7,(C8)

1. extends the hand at the wrist

2. ulnarly deviates the hand at the wrist

1. extends distal phalanx of thumb

2. extends proximal phalanx of thumb
3. assists to extend the hand at the wrist (if
fingers flexed)
1. extends the 2nd digit (McP & IP joints)
2. adducts the 2nd digit
3. assists to extend the hand at the wrist
4. stabilizes McP joint for flexion of IP
solely

posterior interosseous
nerve of radial
nerve, C6,7,8

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Muscle Table Page 6

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Hand & Wrist Musculature

Muscle

Origin

Insertion

Action

Blood

Nerve

Abductor pollicis
brevis

1. distal border of flexor retinaculum

2. trapezium (may be variable)

1. lateral aspect of base of proximal

phalanx of the thumb
2. may also send a slip to the tendon of
extensor pollicis longus

superficial palmar
branches of radial
artery

recurrent branch of
median nerve,
C8,T1

Flexor pollicis
brevis

1. superficial head
a) distal border of flexor retinaculum
b) trapezium
2. deep head
a) floor of carpal tunnel
b) indirectly to scaphoid & trapezium

1. base of proximal phalanx of thumb

2. can also attach to the lateral sesamoid
bone at the McP joint

1. abducts thumb (at the McP joint)

2. participates to flex the thumb (at the
McP joint)
3. if attached to extensor pollicis longus, it
might assist to extend the thumb
powerfully flexes the thumb (at the McP
joint)

Opponens pollicis

1. distal border of flexor retinaculum

2. trapezium

lateral aspect of the 1st metacarpal

opposes the thumb to the fingers

Adductor pollicis

1. transverse head: 3rd metacarpal

2. oblique head:
a) base of 1st, 2nd and 3rd metacarpals
b) floor of carpal tunnel
medial margin of palmar aponeurosis

1. medial aspect of the base of proximal

phalanx
2. medial sesamoid at McP

1. adducts the thumb

2. may assist to flex the thumb (at the McP
joint)

1. skin of ulnar border of palm

2. may insert on the pissiform

tenses the skin on the ulnar side of the

palm, which is used in a grip action

Abductor digiti
minimi

pisiform & tendon of flexor carpi ulnaris

1. medial aspect of the base of proximal

phalanx of the 5th digit
2. may send a slip to the ulnar side of the
dorsal expansion

Flexor digiti
minimi brevis
Opponens digiti
minimi
Palmar interossei

1. distal border of flexor retinaculum

2. hook of the hamate
1. distal border of flexor retinaculum
2. hook of the hamate
from the side of the metacarpal that faces
the midline - to adduct them

medial aspect of the base of proximal

phalanx
medial aspect of the 5th metacarpal

1. abducts the 5th digit (requires pisiform

stabilized by FCU)
2. assists to flex the 5th digit (at McP)
3. may assist in extension of 5th digit (at IP
due to slips to extensor digitorum)
flexes the 5th digit (at the McP joint)

Dorsal interossei

between each metacarpal

Lumbricals

tendon of flexor digitorum profundus

1 & 2 have a single head of origin (from
radial aspect of tendon)
3 & 4 have two heads of origin (each head
from an adjacent tendon)

Palmaris brevis

1. on the base of the proximal phalanx of

the digit of origin (same side toward the
midline)
2. extensor hood of the same digit(s)
1. directly distal to the origin on the base of
the proximal phalanx closest to the
midline (to abduct them.)
2. extensor hood of the same digit(s)
extensor hood of digits 2-5

1. opposes the 5th digit with the thumb

2. assists to "cup" the palm
1. adducts the fingers (hint: PAD)
2. flexes the fingers (at the McP while IP
joints are extended)

1. superficial head:
recurrent branch of
median nerve,
C8,T1
2. deep head: deep
branch of ulnar
nerve, C8,T1
recurrent branch of
median nerve,
C8,T1
deep branch of ulnar
nerve, C8,T1

superficial palmar
branches of ulnar
artery
deep palmar branches
of ulnar artery

superficial branch of
ulnar nerve, C8,T1
deep branch of ulnar
nerve, C8,T1

palmar metacarpal
artery of deep
palmar arch

1. abducts the fingers (hint: DAB)

2. flexes the fingers (at the McP while IP
joints are extended)
1. flexes the fingers (at the McP joints)
2. extend IPs

1 & 2 - median nerve,

C8,T1
3 & 4 - deep branch of
ulnar nerve, C8,T1

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Gluteal Musculature
Muscle

Origin

Insertion

Action

Blood

Nerve

Tensor fascia lata

1. anterior aspect of iliac crest

2. anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS)

1. anterior aspect of IT (iliotibial) band,

below greater trochanter
(IT band inserts on the anterolateral tibia
Gerdys tubercle, & also sends slips to
the lateral patellar retinaculum and the
biceps femoris tendon.)

1. flexes the hip

2. rotates & abducts a flexed thigh
3. tenses IT medially band to support
femur on the tibia during standing

1. superior gluteal
artery
2. lateral femoral
circumflex artery

superior gluteal nerve,

L4,5,S1

Gluteus maximus

1. outer rim of ilium (medial aspect)

2. dorsal surface of sacrum and coccyx
3. sacrotuberous ligament

1. IT band (primary insertion)

2. gluteal tuberosity of femur

1. inferior gluteal
artery (primary)
2. superior gluteal
artery

inferior gluteal nerve,

L5,S1,2

Gluteus medius

1. outer aspect of ilium (between iliac crest

and anterior and posterior gluteal lines)
2. upper fascia (the gluteal aponeurosis)

superior aspect of greater trochanter

superior gluteal artery

superior gluteal nerve,

L4,5,S1

Gluteus minimus

outer aspect of ilium (between anterior and

inferior gluteal lines)

1. greater trochanter (anterior to medius)

2. articular capsule of hip joint

Piriformis

pelvic surface of sacrum (anterior portion)

medial surface of greater trochanter

(through greater sciatic foramen)

1. powerfully extends the hip

2. laterally rotates the thigh
3. upper fibers aid to abduct the thigh
4. stabilizes a fully extended knee (via
fibers of the IT band)
1. anterior and lateral fibers abduct and
medially rotate the thigh
2. posterior fibers may laterally rotate thigh
3. stabilizes the pelvis and prevents free
limb from sagging during gait
1. abducts and medially rotates the thigh
2. stabilizes the pelvis and prevents free
limb from sagging during gait
1. laterally rotates an extended thigh
2. abducts a flexed thigh

nerve to piriformis,
S1,2

Superior gemellus

ischial spine

Obturator internus

1. laterally rotates the thigh

2. abducts thigh when flexed
1. laterally rotates the thigh
2. abducts thigh when flexed

Inferior gemellus

1. internal aspect margins of obturator

foramen
2. obturator membrane
ischial tuberosity

medial aspect of greater trochanter via

upper tendon of obturator internus
medial aspect of greater trochanter
(through lesser sciatic foramen)

1. superior gluteal
artery
2. inferior gluteal
artery
inferior gluteal artery

laterally rotates the thigh

Quadratus femoris

lateral aspect of ischial tuberosity

medial aspect of greater trochanter via

lower tendon of obturator internus
quadrate line
(along posterior aspect of femur and
intertrochanteric crest)

laterally rotates the thigh

nerve to obturator
internus, L5,S1,2

nerve to quadratus
femoris, L4,5,S1

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Posterior Thigh Musculature

Muscle

Origin

Insertion

Action

Blood

Nerve

Semitendinosus

ischial tuberosity

1. medial aspect of tibial shaft

2. contributes to the pes anserine

ischial tuberosity

1. posterior medial aspect of medial tibial

condyle
2. fibers join to form most of oblique
popliteal ligament (& medial meniscus)

1. perforating
branches of
profunda femoris
2. inferior gluteal
artery (to upper)

tibial nerve of sciatic

bundle, L5,S1,2

Semimembranosus

Biceps femoris

1. long head: ischial tuberosity

2. short head: lateral lip of linea aspera and
the lateral intermuscular septum

1. head of fibula
2. maybe to the lateral tibial condyle

1. extends the thigh at the hip

2. flexes the calf at the knee
3. medially rotates the tibia
1. flexes the calf at the knee
2. extends the thigh at the hip
3. medially rotates tibia
4. pulls medial meniscus posterior during
flexion
1. flexes the calf at the knee (mainly short
head)
2. laterally rotates thigh if flexed at the knee
3. extends thigh at the hip (long head)

Adductor magnus

ischial tuberosity

adductor tubercle of the medial epicondyle

of the femur

(posterior fibers)

1. long head: tibial

nerve, L5,S1,2
2. short head:
common peroneal
nerve, L5,S1
tibial nerve of sciatic
bundle, L4,5

1. adducts the thigh at the hip

2. extends and laterally rotates the thigh at
the hip

Adductor (Anteromedial) Thigh Musculature

Muscle

Origin

Insertion

Action

Blood

Nerve

Adductor longus

anterior surface of pubis, just inferior to the

pubic tubercle

medial lip of linea aspera on middle half of

femur

muscular branches of
femoral artery

obturator nerve, L2,3,4

Adductor brevis

body & inferior ramus of pubis

superior portion of linea aspera

Adductor magnus

1. anterior fibers: inferior pubic ramus

2. oblique fibers: ischial ramus
3. posterior fibers: ischial tuberosity

1. proximal 1/3 of linea aspera

2. adductor tubercle

1. adducts the thigh at the hip

2. flexes the thigh at the hip
3. may laterally rotate the thigh at the hip
1. powerfully adducts the thigh at the hip
2. assists to flex the thigh at the hip
3. may laterally rotate thigh at the hip
1. adducts the thigh at the hip
2. posterior fibers extend and laterally
rotate the thigh at the hip

muscular branches of
profunda femoris

1. anterior fibers:
obturator nerve,
L2,3,4
2. posterior fibers:
tibial nerve of
sciatic bundle, L4,5
obturator nerve, L2,3,4

(Complete muscle
is listed here,
posterior fibers
were also listed in
anterior thigh.)

(The above muscles

may receive blood
from obturator artery)

Gracilis

body of pubis & inferior pubic ramus

Obturator externus

1. medial surface of obturator foramen

2. external surface of obturator membrane

1. medial surface of proximal tibia, inferior

to tibial condyle
2. contributes to the pes anserine
trochanteric fossa of femur

1. adducts the thigh at the hip

2. flexes the calf at the knee
3. medially rotates tibia
1. laterally rotates the thigh at the hip
2. assists to flex the thigh at the hip

obturator artery

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Anterior Thigh Musculature

Muscle

Origin

Insertion

Action

Blood

Nerve

Sartorius

anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS)

1. upper medial surface of body of tibia

2. contributes to pes anserine

1. flexes the thigh and the calf (at both the

hip and the knee)
2. laterally rotates the thigh if flexed at the
hip

muscular branches of
profunda femoris
artery
saphenous branch of
descending
genicular artery

femoral nerve, L2,3

1. anterior head: anterior inferior iliac spine

(AIIS)
2. posterior head: ilium just above the
acetabulum
1. greater trochanter
2. lateral lip of linea aspera
3. lateral intermuscular septum
anterior lateral aspect of the femoral shaft

common quadriceps tendon into patella,

tibial tuberosity via patellar ligament

1. extends the calf at the knee

2. flexes the thigh at the hip

lateral femoral
circumflex artery

femoral nerve,
(L2),L3,4

common quadriceps tendon into patella,

tibial tuberosity via patellar ligament

extends the calf at the knee

(may abnormally displace patella)

common quadriceps tendon into patella,

tibial tuberosity via patellar ligament
common quadriceps tendon into patella,
tibial tuberosity via patellar ligament

extends the calf at the knee

1. distal portion of anterior femoral surface,

close to the knee
2. off the deep fibers of the vastus
intermedius

synovial membrane of the knee joint

1. pulls the synovial membrane of the knee

superior with knee extension
2. prevents impingement of the synovial
membrane between patella and the
femur

1. inner surface of upper iliac fossa

2. anterior inferior iliac spine
3. anterior capsule of hip joint
1. vertebral bodies of T12-L4 and the
intervening intervertebral discs
2. transverse processes of L1-L4
1. pectineal line of the pubis
2. superior pubic ramus

1. iliopsoas tendon to the lesser trochanter

of the femur
2. medial aspect of the linea aspera
1. iliopsoas tendon to the lesser trochanter
of the femur
2. medial aspect of the linea aspera
the pectineal line of the femur

1. powerfully flexes the thigh at the hip

2. external rotation of the femur

Quads:
Rectus femoris

Vastus lateralis

Vastus
intermedius
Vastus medialis

Articularis genus
(distinct part of
vastus intermedius)

Deep flexors:
Iliacus

Psoas major

Pectineus
(This muscle could
be classified with
the medial thigh
muscles if supplied
by obturator nerve.)

1. intertrochanteric line of femur

2. medial aspect of linea aspera

(just below the lesser trochanter on the

posterior aspect of the femur)

extends the calf at the knee

1. flexes the thigh at the hip

2. external rotation of the femur
1. flexes the thigh at the hip
2. adducts thigh at the hip
3. medially rotates thigh at the hip

muscular branches of
profunda femoris
artery
saphenous branch of
descending
genicular artery
lateral femoral
circumflex artery

1. iliolumbar artery
2. deep circumflex
iliac artery
1. iliolumbar artery
2. lumbar artery
3. subcostal artery
muscular branches of
medial femoral
circumflex artery

femoral nerve, L3,4

femoral nerve, L2,3,4

ventral rami, L1,2,3,4

A: femoral nerve, L3,4

or
B: obturator nerve,
L2,3,4 or
A & B: femoral L3,4
and accessory
obturator L3,4

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Posterior Leg Musculature

Superficial:
Muscle

Origin

Insertion

Action

Blood

Nerve

1. medial head: just above medial condyle

of femur
2. lateral head: just above lateral condyle of
femur
1. upper fibula
2. soleal line of tibia
above the lateral head of gastrocnemius on
femur

calcaneus via lateral portion of calcaneal

tendon (the tendon twists laterally)

1. plantarflexes the foot at the ankle

2. flexes the calf at the knee (when not
weight bearing)
3. stabilizes ankle & knee when standing
plantarflexes the foot

1. sural branches of
popliteal artery
2. muscular branches
of peroneal artery
3. posterior tibial artery

tibial nerve, S1,2

1. lateral femoral condyle

2. arcuate popliteal ligament
3. lateral meniscus
4. knee joint capsule
1. posterior surface of tibia
2. crural fascia

posterior tibial surface above the soleal line

sural branches of
popliteal artery

tibial nerve, L5,S1

Tibialis posterior

1. posterior, proximal tibia

2. interosseous membrane
3. medial surface of fibula

Flexor hallucis
longus

1. posterior, inferior 2/3 of fibula

2. interosseous membrane, crural fascia &
posterior intermuscular septum

1. navicular tuberosity (principle)

2. all 3 cuneiforms (plantar surface)
3. bases of 2nd-4th metatarsals
4. cuboid
5. sustentaculum tali of calcaneus
1. plantar surface of distal phalanx of hallux

Gastrocnemius

Soleus
Plantaris

Deep:
Popliteus

Flexor digitorum
longus

calcaneus via medial portion of calcaneal

tendon (the tendon twists laterally)
calcaneus, medial to calcaneal tendon or
blending with the calcaneal tendon

plantar surface of bases of the 2-5th distal

phalanges

same as a weak gastrocnemius

1. insertion fixed: laterally rotates femur on

tibia & unlocks knee
2. origin fixed: medially rotates tibia on
femur & unlocks knee
1. primarily flexes 2nd - 5th toes
2. weakly plantarflexes the foot
3. weakly inverts & adducts the foot
1. stabilizes the ankle joint
2. inverts & adducts the foot
3. prevents hyperpronation while in gait
4. weakly plantarflexes the foot
1. flexes the big toe (hallux)
2. weakly plantarflexes the foot
3. weakly inverts & adducts the foot

1. peroneal artery
2. posterior tibial artery

tibial nerve, L5,S1,2

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Lateral Leg Musculature

Muscle

Origin

Insertion

Action

Blood

Nerve

Peroneus longus

1. head of the fibula

2. proximal 2/3 of lateral fibula
3. adjacent intermuscular septum
1. distal 2/3 of lateral fibula
2. posterior and anterior intermuscular
septum

1. plantar surface of cuboid

2. base of 1st (& 2nd) metatarsal
3. plantar surface of medial cuneiform
tuberosity on lateral aspect of base of 5th
metatarsal

1. everts & abducts the foot

2. weakly plantarflexes of the foot

muscular branches of
the peroneal artery

superficial peroneal
nerve, L4,5,S1

Peroneus brevis

1. everts & abducts the foot

2. weakly plantarflexes the foot

Anterior Leg Musculature

Muscle

Origin

Insertion

Action

Blood

Nerve

Tibialis anterior

1. lateral tibial condyle

2. proximal 2/3 of anterolateral surface of
tibia
3. interosseous membrane, anterior
intermuscular septum & crural fascia
1. medial aspect of the fibula
2. interosseous membrane, crural fascia

1. medial & plantar surface of base of 1st

metatarsal
2. medial & plantar surface of the
cuneiform

1. powerfully dorsiflexes the foot

2. inverts & adducts the

anterior tibial artery

deep peroneal nerve,

L4,5,S1

dorsal surface of base of proximal and

distal phalanx of hallux

1. upper anterior surface of fibula

2. interosseous membrane, crural fascia
3. lateral condyle of the tibia
1. distal 1/3 of anterior fibula
2. distal & lateral aspect of extensor
digitorum

dorsal surface of the bases of the middle &

distal phalanxes of the 2nd-5th rays (via
4 tendons and a fibrous expansion)
dorsal surface of base of 5th metatarsal

1. extends the distal phalanx of big toe

2. weakly dorsiflexes the foot
3. weakly inverts & adducts the foot
1. extends the lateral 4 toes
2. weakly dorsiflexes & everts the foot

Extensor hallucis
longus
Extensor
digitorum
longus
Peroneus tertius

1. extends the 5th toe

2. weakly dorsiflexes & everts the foot

(These may receive

small branches from
posterior tibial &
peroneal arteries.)

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Foot Musculature
Muscle

Origin

Insertion

Action

Blood

Nerve

Abductor hallucis

1. medial process of calcaneal tuberosity

2. flexor retinaculum
3. plantar aponeurosis
4. medial intermuscular septum
1. medial process of calcaneal tuberosity
2. plantar aponeurosis

medial aspect of base of proximal phalanx

of hallux

1. flexes the big toe (primary action)

2. may assist to abduct the big toe

medial plantar artery

medial plantar nerve,

L5,S1

both sides of the bases of the middle

phalanx of rays 2-5 (each of the 4
tendons splits forming tunnel for FDL)
lateral aspect of base of proximal phalanx
of 5th ray

flexes toes 2-5

lateral plantar artery

lateral plantar nerve,

S1,2

into the 5th metatarsal

abducts the 5th toe

1. lateral margin of tendon of flexor

digitorum longus (FDL)
2. may send slips into the distal tendons
extensor tendons of EDL on dorsal foot

1. assists FDL to flex the distal phalanxes

of 2nd-5th toes
2. corrects FDL from pulling toes medially
1. flexes the proximal phalanges (at the
MTP joint)
2. extends the middle & distal phalanges
(at the IP joints)
flexes big toe (at the MtP joint)

1st: medial plantar

artery
2nd-4th: lateral plantar
artery
medial plantar artery

1st: medial plantar

nerve, L5,S1
2nd-4th: lateral plantar
nerve, S1,2
medial plantar nerve,
L5,S1

lateral plantar artery

lateral plantar nerve,

S1,2

dorsalis pedis artery

deep peroneal nerve,

L4,5

Flexor digitorum
brevis
Abductor digiti
minimi

Abductor ossis
metatarsi quinti
Quadratus plantae

Lumbricals

Flexor hallucis
brevis

Adductor hallucis

Flexor digiti
minimi brevis
Plantar interossei
(3 muscles)
Dorsal interossei
(4 muscles)
Extensor hallucis
brevis
Extensor
digitorum brevis

1. lateral & medial processes of the

calcaneal tuberosity
2. plantar aponeurosis
3. lateral intermuscular septum
from fibers of abductor digiti minimi
medial head: medial calcaneus
lateral head: lateral calcaneus & long
plantar ligament
from tendons of FDL:
1st: medial aspect of tendon to 2nd ray
2nd-4th: two heads between the tendons in
which they lie
1. medial aspect of the cuboid
2. lateral cuneiform

1. oblique head: base of 2nd-4th

metatarsals & long plantar ligament
2. transverse head: deep transverse
metatarsal ligament & plantar ligaments
at MTP joints
1. base of 5th metatarsal
2. digital sheath of peroneus longus
medial aspect of 3rd-5th metatarsals
(single head of origin)
from both metatarsals between which they
lie
1. upper anterolateral calcaneus
2. inferior extensor retinaculum
1. upper anterolateral calcaneus
2. inferior extensor retinaculum

1. medial aspect of base of proximal

phalanx of hallux (with ABD hallucis)
2. lateral aspect of base of proximal
phalanx of hallux (with ADD hallucis)
lateral aspect of base of proximal phalanx
of hallux

1. abducts the 5th toe

2. assists to flex the 5th toe

1. adducts the big toe (at the MtP joint)

2. flexes the big toe (at MtP joint)

lateral aspect of base of proximal phalanx

of 5th ray
medial aspect of base of proximal phalanx
of the same ray (of 3rd-5th rays)
base of proximal phalanx closest to the axis
of the foot (2nd ray)
base of proximal phalanx of hallux

flexes the 5th toe (at MtP joint)

middle & distal phalanges of 2nd-4th rays

(via EDL)

extends 2nd-4th toes

1. adducts toes 3-5 (at the MtP joints)

2. flex toes 3-5 (at MtP joints)
1. abducts toes 2-4 (at the MtP joints)
2. flexes toes 2-4 (at the MtP joints)
extends the big toe

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Splenius Musculature
Muscle

Origin

Insertion

Action

Blood

Nerve

Splenius capitis

1. lower portion of ligamentum nuchae

2. spinous processes of C3-T3,(4)

1. superior nuchal line

2. mastoid process of temporal bone

muscular branches of
the aorta

dorsal rami of spinal

nerves

Splenius cervicis

spinous process of T3-T6

posterior tubercles of transverse processes

of C2-C4

1. bilateral contraction: extends the head &

neck
2. unilateral contraction: rotates and
laterally bends head & neck to the
contracted (same) side

Erector Spinae Musculature

Muscle

Origin

Insertion

Action

Blood

Nerve

Iliocostalis
lumborum

common tendinous origin:

1. sacrum
2. iliac crest
3. spinous processes of the lower
thoracic & most lumbar vertebrae
upper border of ribs 6-12 (medial to I.
Lumborums insertion.)
angles of ribs 1-6

lower border of angles of ribs (5),6-12

muscular branches of
the aorta

dorsal rami of spinal

nerves

common tendinous origin

1. transverse processes of all thoracic

vertebrae
2. all ribs between tubercles and angles
3. transverse processes of upper lumbar
vertebrae

1. bilateral:
a. extends the vertebral column
b. maintenance of erect posture
(hint: I Like Standing)
c. stabilizes the vertebral column
during flexion, acting in contrast to
abdominal muscles and the action
of gravity
2. unilateral:
a. laterally bends the vertebral column
to the contracted side
b. rotates the vertebral column to the
contracted side
c. opposite muscles contract
eccentrically for stabilization

transverse processes of T1-T5,(6)

transverse processes of C2-C6

1. transverse and articular processes of

middle and lower cervical vertebrae
2. transverse processes of upper thoracic
vertebrae
common tendinous origin
spinous processes of C6-T2

posterior aspect of mastoid process of

temporal bone

Iliocostalis
thoracis
Iliocostalis
cervicis
Longissimus
thoracis

Longissimus
cervicis
Longissimus
capitis

Spinalis thoracis
Spinalis cervicis
(may be absent)

Spinalis capitis

spinous processes of lower cervical &

upper thoracic vertebrae

lower border of angles of ribs 1-6

(sometimes transverse process of C7)
transverse processes of C4-C6

spinous processes T3,(4)-T8,(9)

spinous processes of C2 (and may extend
to C3 or C4)
between superior & inferior nuchal lines of
occipital bone

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Transversospinal Musculature
Muscle

Origin

Insertion

Action

Blood

Nerve

Semispinalis
thoracis
Semispinalis
cervicis
Semispinalis
capitus
Multifidus

transverse processes of T6-T12 vertebrae

spinous processes of lower cervical &

upper thoracic vertebrae
spinous processes of C2-T5,(T6)

1. bilaterally: extends vertebral column,

especially head and neck
2. controls lateral flexion to side opposite of
contraction (eccentric for stability)
3. maintains head posture

muscular branches of
the aorta

dorsal rami of spinal

nerves

Long rotators

transverse processes of T1-T6 vertebrae

and can go down to lower thoracic
1. transverse processes of T1-T6
2. articular processes of C4-C7
cervical region: from articular processes of
lower cervical vertebrae
thoracic region: from transverse processes
of all thoracic vertebrae
lumbar region:
1. mamillary processes of all lumbar
vertebrae
2. deep surface of tendinous origin of
erector spinae
3. lower portion of dorsal sacrum
4. PSIS
transverse process of one vertebra

Short rotators

transverse process of one vertebra

(segmental)

between superior & inferior nuchal lines of

occipital bone
vertebral spinous process extending from
C2 - L5 (skipping 2-4 vertebrae
superiorly)

vertebral spinous process (skipping one

vertebrae superiorly)
base of spinous process of vertebra
immediately above

1. bilaterally: extends vertebral column

2. controls lateral flexion to side opposite of
contraction (eccentric for stability)
3. unilaterally: rotates vertebral column to
side opposite of contraction

1. rotates to side opposite of contraction

2. bilaterally extends vertebral column

Segmental (Deep Back) Musculature

Muscle

Origin

Insertion

Action

Blood

Nerve

Interspinalis

spinous processes of each vertebra

extends vertebral column

muscular branches of
the aorta

dorsal rami of spinal

nerves

Intertransversi

cervical region:
1. from the anterior tubercle of
transverse process
2. from the posterior tubercle of
transverse process
thoracic region: (poorly developed)
lumbar region:
1. lateral aspect of the transverse
process
2. mamillary process

to the spinous process of vertebra

immediately above
cervical region:
1. to the anterior tubercle immediately
above
2. to the posterior tubercle
immediately above
thoracic region: (poorly developed)
lumber region:
1. to lateral aspect of the transverse
process immediately above
2. to the accessory process on the
vertebra immediately above

laterally flexes each respective pair of

vertebrae (eccentric for stability)

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Suboccipital Musculature
Muscle

Origin

Insertion

Action

Blood

Nerve

Obliquus capitis
inferior
Obliquus capitis
superior
Rectus capitis
posterior major
Rectus capitis
posterior minor

spinous process of axis (C2)

transverse process of atlas (C1)

rotates the head to the contracted side

muscular branches of
vertebral artery

suboccipital nerve,
(dorsal rami C1)

transverse process of atlas (C1)

spinous process of axis (C2)

between superior and inferior nuchal line of

occiput
inferior nuchal line (lateral to minor)

posterior tubercle of atlas (C1)

inferior nuchal line (adjacent to midline)

1. bilaterally extends the head

2. laterally flexes to the contracted side
1. bilaterally extends the head
2. rotates the head to the contracted side
bilaterally extends the head

Prevertebral Musculature
Muscle

Origin

Insertion

Action

Blood

Nerve

Longus colli

lower anterior vertebral bodies and

transverse processes
upper anterior vertebral bodies and
transverse processes
anterior base of the transverse process of
the atlas
transverse process of the atlas

anterior vertebral bodies and transverse

processes several segments above

flexes the head and neck

muscular branches of
the aorta

ventral rami C2-C6

Longus capitis
Rectus capitis
anterior
Rectus capitis
lateralis

ventral rami C1-C3

occipital bone anterior to foramen magnum

flexes the head

jugular process of the occipital bone

bends the head laterally

ventral rami C2,3

Anterolateral Neck Musculature

Muscle

Attachment 1 (fixed site may vary)

Attachment 2

Action

Blood

Nerve

Anterior scalene

anterior tubercles of transverse processes

of C3-C6

1st rib

anterior tubercles of transverse processes

of C6 & 7
transverse processes of all cervical
vertebrae
posterior tubercles of transverse processes
of C5 & C6

1st rib and/or supraplural membrane

inferior thyroid artery

(branch of the
thyrocervical trunk)
ascending cervical
artery

ventral rami C3-C6

Scalenus minimus

if transverse process fixed:

1. elevates the ribs for respiration
if ribs fixed:
2. rotates to side opposite of contraction
3. laterally flexes to the contracted side
4. bilaterally flexes the neck

(may be absent)

Middle scalene
Posterior scalene

1st rib (behind anterior scalene)

2nd and/or 3rd rib

variable (cervical and

brachial plexus)
ventral rami C3-C8
ventral rami C5-C7

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Superficial Neck Musculature

Muscle

Origin

Insertion

Action

Blood

Nerve

Sternocleidomastoid

two heads:
1. manubrium of sternum
2. medial portion of clavicle

mastoid process of temporal bone

1. rotates to side opposite of contraction

2. laterally flexes to the contracted side
3. bilaterally flexes the neck

1. occipital artery
2. superior thyroid
artery

Platysma

subcutaneous skin over delto-pectoral

region

invests in the skin widely over the mandible

1. depress mandible and lower lip

2. tenses the skin over the lower neck

superficial vessels of
the neck

1. motor: spinal
accessory (XI
cranial)
2. sensory: ventral
rami of C2,(C3)
cervical branch of
facial nerve (VII
cranial)

Anterior Neck Musculature

Infrahyoid Muscles
Muscle

Origin

Insertion

Action

Blood

Nerve

Sternohyoid

1. posterior aspect of manubrium

2. sternal end of clavicle

body of hyoid

1. depresses hyoid & larynx

2. acts eccentrically with the suprahyoid
muscles to provide them a stable base

1. inferior thyroid
artery (primary)
2. superior thyroid
artery

upper portions:
superior root of
ansa cervicalis, C2

Omohyoid

both bellies meet at the clavicle & are held

to the clavicle by a pulley tendon

Sternothyroid
Thyrohyoid

Attachments:
1. superior belly: hyoid bone (lateral to
sternohyoid)
2. inferior belly: superior scapular border
(medial to suprascapular notch)
posterior aspect of manubrium
oblique line of thyroid cartilage

Suprahyoid Muscles
Stylohyoid

styloid process of temporal bone

lateral margin of hyoid (near greater horn)

Attachments:
1. post belly: mastoid process of temporal
bone
2. anterior belly: digastric fossa of internal
mandible
inner surface of mandible off the mylohyoid
line

both bellies meet and attach at the lateral

aspect of body of hyoid by a pulley
tendon

inner surface of the mandible off the

mental spines

Digastric

Mylohyoid

Geniohyoid

oblique line of thyroid cartilage

body of hyoid

lower portions: inferior

root of ansa
cervicalis, C2,3

1. depresses hyoid
2. may assist in larynx elevation

1. pulls the hyoid superiorly & posteriorly

during swallowing
2. fixes the hyoid bone for infrahyoid action
1. open mouth by depressing mandible
2. fixes hyoid bone for infrahyoid action

facial & occipital artery

facial nerve (VII

cranial)

branches of the
external carotid

post belly: facial nerve

(VII cranial)
ant belly: mylohyoid
nerve

1. body of hyoid
2. along midline at mylohyoid raphe

1. elevates the hyoid bone

2. raises floor of mouth (for swallowing)
3. depresses mandible when hyoid is fixed

lingual artery

body of hyoid (paired muscles separated

by a septum)

1. elevates the tongue

2. depress the mandible
3. works with mylohyoid

lingual artery

mylohyoid nerve
(branch of
mandibular division,
V3 cranial)
branch from C1
(following
hypoglossal nerve)

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Epicranial Musculature
Muscle

Origin

Insertion

Action

Blood

Occipitalis
(2 bellies)

1. lateral 2/3 of superior nuchal line

2. external occipital protuberance

galea aponeurosis, over the occipital bone

draws back the scalp to raise the eyebrows

and wrinkle the brow

occipital artery

Frontalis
(2 bellies)

galea aponeurosis, anterior to the vertex

skin above the nose and eyes

ophthalmic artery

Nerve
(VII cranial)
posterior auricular
branch of facial
nerve
temporal branch of
facial nerve

Muscles of Facial Expression

Circumorbital:
Muscle
Orbicularis oculi

Corrugator
supercilii
Buccolabial:
Orbicularis oris
Levator labii
superioris
alaeque nasi
Levator labii
superioris
Zygomaticus
minor
Zygomaticus
major
Risorius
(may be absent)
Levator anguli oris
Buccinator

Depressor anguli
oris
Depressor labii
inferioris

Origin

Insertion

Action

Blood

orbital portion:
nasal process of frontal bone
palpebral portion:
palpebral ligament
lacrimal portion:
lacrimal crest of lacrimal bone
frontal bone just above the nose

circumferentially around orbit meeting in

palpebral raphe

powerfully closes the eye

ophthalmic artery

skin of the medial portion of the eyebrows

draws the eyebrows downward and

medially

1. alveolar border of maxilla

2. lateral to midline of mandible
frontal process of maxilla

1. circumferentially around mouth

2. blends with other muscles
1. upper lip muscles
2. nasal cartilage

1. closes the lips

2. protrudes the lips
1. elevates the upper lip
2. flares the nostrils

medial 1/2 of infraorbital margin

upper lip muscles

elevates the upper lip

zygomatic bone, posterior to maxillaryzygomatic suture

anterior to zygomatic-temporal suture

skin of the upper lip

elevates the upper lip

modiolus (angle of the mouth)

parotid fascia

modiolus

lifts and draws back the angle(s) of the

mouth (as in smiling)
draws the mouth laterally (as in smiling)

maxilla, inferior to infraorbital foramen

modiolus

1. posterior alveolar process of maxilla

2. posterior alveolar process of mandible
3. along the pterygomandibular raphe
1. along the oblique line of mandible
2. lateral aspect of mental tubercle of the
mandible
1. mandible, between symphysis and
mental foramen
2. along oblique line of the mandible

modiolus

facial artery

Nerve
(VII cranial)
zygomatic branch of
facial nerve

buccal branch of facial

nerve

lifts the angle(s) of the mouth

(as in smiling)
compresses the cheek(s)

modiolus

lowers the angle(s) of the mouth

(as in frowning)

skin of the lower lip

draws the lower lip downward and laterally

mandibular branch of
facial nerve

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Muscles of Mastication
Muscle

Origin

Insertion

Action

Blood

Masseter

Superficial:
1. zygomatic process of the maxilla
2. inferior border of zygomatic arch
Intermediate:
inner surface of zygomatic arch
Deep:
posterior aspect of inferior border of
zygomatic arch
1. temporal fossa (including frontal, parietal
and temporal bones)
2. temporal fascia
1. medial surface of lateral pterygoid plate
of the sphenoid
2. palatine bone
3. pterygoid fossa
Superior head:
1. lateral surface of the greater wing of
the sphenoid
Inferior head:
2. lateral surface of the lateral
pterygoid plate

Superficial:
1. angle of mandible
2. lateral surface of mandibular ramus
Intermediate:
ramus of mandible
Deep:
1. superior ramus of mandible
2. coronoid process of mandible
1. coronoid process of the mandible
2. internal aspect of ramus of mandible
down to the alveolar process
1. inner surface of mandibular ramus
2. angle of the mandible

1. closes the lower jaw (clenches the teeth)

2. may deviate mandible to opposite side of
contraction

masseteric artery

Nerve (mandibular
division, V3 cranial)
masseteric nerve

1. closes the lower jaw (clenches the teeth)

2. deviates mandible to same side of
contraction
1. closes the lower jaw (clenches the teeth)
2. can protrude the mandible in
combination with the lateral pterygoid

deep temporal artery

deep temporal nerve

medial pterygoid artery

medial pterygoid nerve

Insert together:
1. neck of the mandibular condyle
2. articular disk of the TMJ

1. deviates mandible to side opposite of

contraction (during chewing)
2. opens mouth by protruding mandible
(inferior head)
3. closes the mandible (superior head)

lateral pterygoid artery

lateral pterygoid nerve

Nerve
(hint: Lr6, SO4, Ar3)
oculomotor nerve
(III cranial)

Temporalis

Medial pterygoid

Lateral pterygoid

Extraocular Musculature
Muscle

Origin

Insertion

Action

Blood

Levator palpebrae
superioris

inferior aspect of the lesser wing of

sphenoid (adjacent to the common
annular tendon)
1. common annular tendon (which comes
off the body and lesser wing of
sphenoid)
2. margins of the optic canal

1. medial and lateral walls of the orbit

2. superior tarsus

elevates the eyelid

branches of
ophthalmic artery

posterior to the sclerocorneal junction

(each muscle inserting along its own
directional axis)

abducts eye

Lateral rectus
Medial rectus
Superior rectus

Inferior rectus

Superior oblique

body of sphenoid

Inferior oblique

orbital surface of maxilla

upper lateral quadrant of the posterior half

of the sclera (via the trochlea, as a
pulley)
lower lateral quadrant of the posterior half
of the sclera (via the suspensory
ligament, as a pulley)

adducts eye
1. elevates,
2. medially rotates &
3. adducts the eye
1. depress,
2. laterally rotates &
3. adducts the eye
1. depress,
2. medially rotates &
3. abducts the eye
1. elevates
2. laterally rotates &
3. abducts the eye

abducens nerve
(VI cranial)
oculomotor nerve
(III cranial)

trochlear nerve
(IV cranial)
oculomotor nerve
(III cranial)

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Laryngeal Musculature
Phonation Muscles
Muscle

Origin

Insertion

Action

Blood

Nerve

Cricothyroid

arch of cricoid cartilage

lower border and lower medial surface of

thyroid cartilage

inferior and superior

laryngeal arteries

Posterior
cricoarytenoid

posterior surface of cricoid cartilage at

midline

muscular process of the arytenoid cartilage

external branch of
superior laryngeal
nerve
inferior laryngeal nerve
(branch of vagus
nerve, X cranial)

Lateral
cricoarytenoid

upper border of lateral aspect of the cricoid

arch

muscular process of arytenoid cartilage

Transversus
arytenoid

the muscular process of one arytenoid

cartilage

the muscular process of the contralateral

arytenoid cartilage

Vocalis

internal, inferior & anteromedial aspect of

the thyroid cartilage

Thyroarytenoid

internal, inferior & anteromedial aspect of

the thyroid cartilage (lateral to vocalis)

the vocal process of the arytenoid cartilage

(running along the entire length of vocal
ligament)
muscular process and lateral surface of
arytenoid cartilage (running alongside
and lateral to the vocalis)

tenses the vocal folds

(bilaterally they tilt the cricoid cartilage
on the thyroid cartilage)
abducts the vocal folds
(pulls the muscular process of the
arytenoid cartilage posteriorly and
medially)
adducts the vocal folds
(pulls the muscular process of the
arytenoid cartilage anteriorly and
laterally)
adducts the vocal folds
(pulls the two arytenoid cartilages closer
together)
relaxes the vocal folds
(pulls the arytenoid cartilages anteriorly)

laryngeal sphincter muscle(s)

inferior and superior

laryngeal arteries

inferior laryngeal
nerve, branch of
vagus nerve (X
cranial)

(paired bilaterally)

(unpaired muscle)

Laryngeal Sphincter Muscles

Oblique arytenoid
muscular process of an arytenoid cartilage

Aryepiglottic
Thyroepiglottic

fibers of the oblique arytenoid muscle

fibers of the thyroarytenoid in aryepiglottic
folds

1. muscular process of the contralateral

arytenoid cartilage
2. fibers of the aryepiglottic muscle
lateral border of epiglottis
epiglottis

Intercostal Musculature
Muscle

Attachment A

Attachment B

Action

Blood

Nerve

External
intercostals

inferior border of an upper rib

(hint: runs like hands in your pockets)

1. elevates the ribs in inspiration

2. may depress the ribs in forced expiration

intercostal arteries

intercostal nerves

Internal
intercostals

superior border of a lower rib

(runs opposite of external intercostals)

Innermost
intercostals

superior border of a lower rib

(often not well developed)

Subcostals
Transversus
thoracis

inner surface of each rib near its angle

inner surface of lower sternum

superior border of a rib below (each

muscle fiber runs obliquely and inserts
toward the costal cartilage)
inferior border of a rib above (each muscle
fiber runs obliquely and inserts toward
the costal cartilage)
inferior border of a rib above (each muscle
fiber runs obliquely and inserts toward
the costal cartilage)
medially on the 2nd 3rd rib below
inner surfaces of costal cartilages of the
2nd - 6th ribs

1. depress the ribs in expiration

2. may elevate the ribs in forced inspiration
may assist in respiration

depress the ribs in expiration

depress the ribs in expiration

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Abdominal Musculature
Muscle

Attachment A

Attachment B

Action

Blood

Nerve

Diaphragm

1. sternal portion: inner xiphoid process

2. costal portion: inner surface of the lower
6 ribs
3. lumbar portion: upper 2 or 3 lumbar
vertebrae via 2 cura

central tendon of the diaphragm

draws the central tendon down, increasing

the thoracic cavity volume

External oblique

lower borders of the lower 8 ribs

(runs like hands in your pockets)

1. outer lip of the iliac crest

2. inguinal ligament
3. anterior layer of the rectus sheath

1. phrenic nerve,
C3,4,5 (motor &
central sensory)
2. intercostal nerves
(peripheral portion
sensation)
1. 7th to 12th
intercostal nerves
2. iliohypogastric
nerves, T12,L1
3. ilioinguinal nerves,
T12,L1

Internal oblique

1. middle lip of the iliac crest

2. lateral 1/3 of the inguinal ligament
3. thoracolumbar fascia

1. linea alba
2. lower borders of the lower 3 or 4 ribs

Transversus
abdominis

1. inner lip of iliac crest

2. lateral 1/3 of the inguinal ligament
3. thoracolumbar fascia
4. cartilage of the lower 6 ribs
1. cartilages of ribs 5-7
2. xiphoid process
ventral surface of pubis

linea alba

unilateral:
1. rotates trunk to side opposite of
contraction
2. laterally flex trunk to same side of
contraction
bilateral:
3. flexes the trunk
4. compresses the abdomen
unilateral:
1. rotates trunk to same side of
contraction
2. laterally flex trunk to same side of
contraction
bilateral:
3. flexes the trunk
4. compresses the abdomen
1. tenses the abdominal wall
2. assists contralateral external oblique in
lateral flexion

1. inferior phrenic
arteries (primary)
2. superior phrenic
arteries
3. musculophrenic
arteries
1. lower intercostal
2. subcostal
3. lumbar arteries

superior & inferior

epigastric arteries

7th to 12th intercostal

nerves
branch of the
subcostal nerve,
T12

Rectus abdominis
Pyramidalis

pubic crest between pubic tubercle and

pubic symphysis
linea alba, midway between the umbilicus
and pubis

1. flexes the trunk

2. compresses the abdomen
tenses the linea alba

Posterior Abdominal Wall Musculature

Muscle

Origin

Insertion

Action

Blood

Nerve

Iliacus

1. inner surface of upper iliac fossa

2. anterior inferior iliac spine
3. anterior capsule of hip joint
1. vertebral bodies of T12-L4 and the
intervening intervertebral discs
2. transverse processes of L1-L4
1. lateral lip of iliac crest
2. iliolumbar ligament

1. iliopsoas tendon to the lesser trochanter

of the femur
2. medial aspect of the linea aspera
1. iliopsoas tendon to the lesser trochanter
of the femur
2. medial aspect of the linea aspera
1. posterior, inferior aspect of 12th rib
2. transverse processes of L1-L4

1. powerful hip flexor

2. external rotation of femur

1. iliolumbar artery
2. deep circumflex
iliac artery
1. iliolumbar artery
2. lumbar artery
3. subcostal artery
1. lumbar artery
2. subcostal artery

femoral nerve, L2,3,4

Psoas major

Quadratus
lumborum

1. hip flexion
2. external rotation of femur
1. depress the 12th rib, expanding thoracic
cavity
2. stabilize the 12th rib
3. acts to eccentrically stabilize lateral
flexion to the opposite side

ventral rami, L1,2,3,4

ventral rami, L1,2,3,4