Dorlands
/Elsevier m_22/12549574 | ||
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Origin Transverse processes of C7 to T11 vertebrae Insertion Superior surfaces of the ribs immediately inferior to the preceding vertebrae Nerve dorsal rami C8-T11 (Intercostal nerves) Actions Assists in elevation of the thoracic rib cage Latin Musculi levatores costarum | ||
The Levatores costarum (/ˌlɛvəˈtɔəriːz kəˈstɛərəm/), twelve in number on either side, are small tendinous and fleshy bundles, which arise from the ends of the transverse processes of the seventh cervical and upper eleven thoracic vertebrae
They pass obliquely downward and laterally, like the fibers of the Intercostales externi, and each is inserted into the outer surface of the rib immediately below the vertebra from which it takes origin, between the tubercle and the angle (Levatores costarum breves).
Each of the four lower muscles divides into two fasciculi, one of which is inserted as above described; the other passes down to the second rib below its origin (Levatores costarum longi).
Their role in normal inspiration, if any, is uncertain. They may play a role in vertebral movement and/or proprioception.