Muscle
Multifidus
Overlapping deep back muscle bundles linking nearby vertebrae
High-yield
The commonly taught pattern spans about two to four vertebral levels, although detailed dissections describe more complex overlapping fascicles. It belongs to the transversospinal group and receives dorsal ramus branches.
Overview
Multifidus consists of short, layered bundles close to the vertebral arches and spinous processes. It is particularly developed in the lumbar region, where its attachments help control movement and support individual spinal segments.
Reference facts
- Origin
- Sacrum and posterior ilium, lumbar mammillary processes, thoracic transverse processes and lower cervical articular processes
- Insertion
- Spinous processes above the lower attachment, commonly described as two to four levels away
- Action
- Supports spinal segments and assists extension, side bending and rotation toward the opposite side
- Innervation
- Mainly medial branches of the dorsal rami of spinal nerves
- Blood supply
- Segmental branches of deep cervical, posterior intercostal, subcostal and lumbar arteries
Clinical correlation
Changes in multifidus size or fat content have been reported in people with low back pain. Similar findings can occur without pain, and their presence alone does not establish the cause or severity of symptoms.
Frequently asked questions
What does the multifidus do?
The multifidus supports spinal segments and assists extension, side bending and rotation toward the opposite side.
What nerve innervates the multifidus?
Mainly medial branches of the dorsal rami of spinal nerves.
Where does the multifidus attach?
Origin: Sacrum and posterior ilium, lumbar mammillary processes, thoracic transverse processes and lower cervical articular processes. Insertion: Spinous processes above the lower attachment, commonly described as two to four levels away.
What is the blood supply of the multifidus?
The multifidus is supplied by the segmental branches of deep cervical, posterior intercostal, subcostal and lumbar arteries.