Audio LecturePro Feature Multifidus 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The multifidus is a deep muscle of the back. It is located underneath the semispinalis muscle and most developed in the lumbar area. Attachments: Has a broad origin – arises from the sacrum, posterior iliac spine, common tendinous origin of the erector spinae, lumbar vertebrae, transverse processes of T1-T3 and articular processes of C4-C7. The fibres ascend 2-4 vertebral segments, attaching to the vertebral spinous processes. Actions: Stabilises the vertebral column. Innervation: Posterior rami of the spinal nerves Blood Supply: Supplied by multiple arteries localised to region along the vertebral column – vertebral, deep cervical, and occipital arteries in the cervical region; dorsal branches of posterior intercostal and subcostal arteries in the thoracic region. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 1The semispinalis and multfidus muscles. 3D ModelPro Feature 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 is the multifidus muscle? The multifidus is a deep back muscle that plays a crucial role in stabilising the vertebral column. It is situated beneath the semispinalis muscle and is most prominent in the lumbar region. Where does the multifidus muscle originate? The multifidus has a broad origin, arising from the sacrum, posterior iliac spine, common tendinous origin of the erector spinae, lumbar vertebrae, and the transverse processes of T1-T3, as well as the articular processes of C4-C7. What is the function of the multifidus muscle? The primary function of the multifidus muscle is to stabilise the vertebral column during movement. This stabilisation is essential for maintaining proper posture and spinal alignment. How is the multifidus muscle innervated? The multifidus muscle is innervated by the posterior rami of the spinal nerves. This innervation is crucial for its role in motor control and stabilisation of the spine. What is the blood supply to the multifidus muscle? The multifidus receives its blood supply from several arteries along the vertebral column, including the vertebral, deep cervical, and occipital arteries in the cervical region, as well as dorsal branches of the posterior intercostal and subcostal arteries in the thoracic region. Rate This Article