Levatores Costarum - Podcast Version 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The levatores costarum are a set of deep muscles of the back. They consist of 12 small paired muscles, and can also be considered a deep chest wall muscle group. Attachments: Originates from the transverse processes of C7-T11, and attaches to the rib below. Actions: Elevates the ribs during respiration. Contributes to lateral flexion of the vertebral column. Innervation: Posterior rami of the spinal nerves T1 – T12 Blood Supply: Posterior intercostal arteries. Adobe Stock, Licensed to TeachMeSeries Ltd Fig 1The levator costarum muscle group. 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 Frequent questions What are the levatores costarum muscles? The levatores costarum are a group of 12 paired deep back muscles that also function as part of the deep chest wall. They play a role in elevating the ribs during breathing and assist in lateral flexion of the vertebral column. Where do the levatores costarum muscles originate and attach? These muscles originate from the transverse processes of the cervical vertebrae C7 to T11 and attach to the rib directly below. This positioning allows them to effectively assist in rib elevation. What is the primary function of the levatores costarum? The primary function of the levatores costarum is to elevate the ribs during respiration. Additionally, they contribute to the lateral flexion of the vertebral column, aiding in trunk movement. How are the levatores costarum innervated? The levatores costarum are innervated by the posterior rami of the spinal nerves T1 to T12. This innervation is crucial for their motor function during respiratory movements. What is the blood supply to the levatores costarum muscles? The blood supply to the levatores costarum comes from the posterior intercostal arteries. This vascular support is essential for the muscles' metabolic needs during their activities. Rate This Article