Multifidus

Multifidus

Anatomy

One of the intrinsic muscles of the back.

Origin:
Fasiculi of sacrum, origin of erector spine, posterior superior iliac spine, mamillary processes of lumbar vertebrae, transverse processes of thoracic vertebrae and articular processes of lower four cervical vertebrae.

Insertion:
Whole length of spinous processes of one of the vertebrae above.

Key Relations:
Deep to semispinalis and superficial to rotatores. Spans length of vertebral column. Best developed in the lumbar region.

Functions

-Stabilises individual vertebrae in movements of all or segments of the vertebral column.
-Assists in flexion (unilateral) and extension (bilateral).

Supply

Nerve Supply:
Dorsal rami of spinal nerves.

Clinical

Multifidus is important in the rehabilitation of lower back pain and groin strain.

Interested in taking our award-winning Pocket Anatomy app for a test drive?