The Superficial Back Muscles - Podcast Version 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The muscles of the back can be divided into three groups – superficial, intermediate and deep: Superficial – associated with movements of the shoulder. Intermediate – associated with movements of the thoracic cage. Deep – associated with movements of the vertebral column. The deep muscles develop embryologically in the back, and are thus described as intrinsic muscles. The superficial and intermediate muscles do not develop in the back, and are classified as extrinsic muscles. This article is about the anatomy of the superficial back muscles – their attachments, innervations and functions. The superficial back muscles are situated underneath the skin and superficial fascia. They originate from the vertebral column and attach to the bones of the shoulder – the clavicle, scapula and humerus. All these muscles are therefore associated with movements of the upper limb. The muscles in this group are the trapezius, latissimus dorsi, levator scapulae and the rhomboids. The trapezius and the latissimus dorsi lie the most superficially, with the trapezius covering the rhomboids and levator scapulae. Pro Feature - 3D Model You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our 3D Model Library Explore, cut, dissect, annotate and manipulate our 3D models to visualise anatomy in a dynamic, interactive way. Learn More Trapezius The trapezius is a broad, flat and triangular muscle. The muscles on each side form a trapezoid shape. It is the most superficial of all the back muscles. Attachments: Originates from the skull, ligamentum nuchae and the spinous processes of C7-T12. The fibres attach to the clavicle, acromion and the scapula spine. Innervation: Motor innervation is from the accessory nerve. It also receives proprioceptor fibres from C3 and C4 spinal nerves. Actions: The upper fibres of the trapezius elevates the scapula and rotates it during abduction of the arm. The middle fibres retract the scapula and the lower fibres pull the scapula inferiorly. Clinical Relevance Testing the Accessory Nerve The most common cause of accessory nerve damage is iatrogenic (i.e. due to a medical procedure). In particular, operations such as cervical lymph node biopsy or cannulation of the internal jugular vein can cause trauma to the nerve. To test the accessory nerve, trapezius function can be assessed. This can be done by asking the patient to shrug his/her shoulders. Other clinical features of accessory nerve damage include muscle wasting, partial paralysis of the sternocleidomastoid, and an asymmetrical neckline. Pro Feature - Dissection Atlas The superficial and intermediate muscles of the back The superficial and intermediate muscles of the back You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our Dissection Image Library Enhance your understanding with high-resolution dissection images showcasing real-life anatomy. Learn More Latissimus Dorsi The latissimus dorsi originates from the lower part of the back, where it covers a wide area. Attachments: Has a broad origin – arising from the spinous processes of T6-T12, thoracolumbar fascia, iliac crest, and the inferior three ribs. The fibres converge into a tendon that attaches to the intertubercular sulcus of the humerus. Innervation: Thoracodorsal nerve. Actions: Extends, adducts and medially rotates the upper limb. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 1.0The superficial muscles of the back Levator Scapulae The levator scapulae is a small strap-like muscle. It begins in the neck, and descends to attach to the scapula. Attachments: Originates from the transverse processes of the C1-C4 vertebrae and attaches to the medial border of the scapula. Innervation: Dorsal scapular nerve. Actions: Elevates the scapula. Rhomboids There are two rhomboid muscles – major and minor. The rhomboid minor is situated superiorly to the major. Rhomboid Major Attachments: Originates from the spinous processes of T2-T5 vertebrae. Attaches to the medial border of the scapula, between the scapula spine and inferior angle. Innervation: Dorsal scapular nerve. Actions: Retracts and rotates the scapula. Rhomboid Minor Attachments: Originates from the spinous processes of C7-T1 vertebrae. Attaches to the medial border of the scapula, at the level of the spine of scapula. Innervation: Dorsal scapular nerve. Actions: Retracts and rotates the scapula. Do you think you’re ready? Take the quiz below Pro Feature - Quiz The Superficial Back Muscles Question 1 of 3 Submitting... Skip Next Rate question: You scored 0% Skipped: 0/3 1800 More Questions Available Upgrade to TeachMeAnatomy Pro Challenge yourself with over 1800 multiple-choice questions to reinforce learning Learn More Frequent questions What are the superficial back muscles and their primary functions? The superficial back muscles include the trapezius, latissimus dorsi, levator scapulae, and rhomboids, primarily responsible for shoulder and upper limb movements. They originate from the vertebral column and attach to the shoulder bones, facilitating actions such as elevation, retraction, and rotation of the scapula. What is the origin and innervation of the trapezius muscle? The trapezius muscle originates from the skull, ligamentum nuchae, and the spinous processes of C7-T12, and it is innervated by the accessory nerve. This muscle plays a crucial role in elevating and retracting the scapula during upper limb movements. How does the latissimus dorsi contribute to upper limb movement? The latissimus dorsi extends, adducts, and medially rotates the upper limb, originating from the spinous processes of T6-T12 and other structures. Its tendon attaches to the intertubercular sulcus of the humerus, allowing for significant mobility in the arm. What are the attachments and actions of the levator scapulae muscle? The levator scapulae originates from the transverse processes of the C1-C4 vertebrae and attaches to the medial border of the scapula. Its primary action is to elevate the scapula, contributing to shoulder stability and movement. How do the rhomboid muscles function in scapular movement? The rhomboid major and minor originate from the spinous processes of different vertebrae and attach to the medial border of the scapula. Both muscles are responsible for retracting and rotating the scapula, playing a vital role in shoulder mechanics. Rate This Article