Iliocostalis Thoracis

Original Editor - Kakshya Rupakheti

Top Contributors - Kakshya Rupakheti and Lucinda hampton

Introduction[edit | edit source]

Iliocostalis

The Iliocostalis muscles are the most lateral components of the erector spinae group. This subgroup includes the iliocostalis cervicis, iliocostalis thoracis, and iliocostalis lumborum.

Iliocostalis Thoracic (also know as iliocostalis dorsi) is the thoracic segment of the iliocostalis muscle.[1] It is narrow, fusiform and lies lateral to the iliocostalis cervicis.

Origin[edit | edit source]

It is originated from the superior aspect of the angle of the lower six ribs( 6-12 ribs). It is medial to iliocostalis lumborum's insertion.[2]

Insertion[edit | edit source]

It is inserted at the angles of the upper six ribs(1-6 ribs) and the transverse process of C7 vertebra.[2]

Nerve[edit | edit source]

It is innervated by the lateral branches of the posterior primary divisions (dorsal rami) of the thoracic spinal nerves.[2]

Artery[edit | edit source]

The blood supply is provided by the dorsal rami of the posterior intercostal arteries.[1]

Function[edit | edit source]

Back Extension

The muscle extends and laterally flexes the Thoracic spine.[2]

When acting bilaterally, it participates in the extension of the thoracic spine in synergy with the iliocostalis cervicis, iliocostalis lumborum, longissimus cervicis, spinalis thoracis, semispinalis cervicis, and semispinalis thoracis muscles. When acting unilaterally, it is a lateral flexor of the thoracic spine.[1]

Physiotherapy relevance[edit | edit source]

see Iliocostalis

Resources[edit | edit source]

  1. 1.0 1.1 1.2 Roldan CJ, Huh BK. Iliocostalis thoracis-lumborum myofascial pain: Reviewing a subgroup of a prospective, randomized, blinded trial. A challenging diagnosis with clinical implications. Pain physician. 2016 Aug 1;19(6):363-72.
  2. 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 Cramer GD, Darby SA. Clinical anatomy of the spine, spinal cord, and ANS-e-book.