Latissimus Dorsi

Region: Back Muscles · All back muscles

Latissimus Dorsi muscle anatomy illustration — origin, insertion, action and nerve supply
Latissimus Dorsi muscle, highlighted in red. Latissimus Dorsi muscle anatomy at MedicalVideos.com

Latissimus Dorsi at a glance

OriginSpinous processes of T7–L5, thoracolumbar fascia, iliac crest and lower ribs
InsertionFloor of the intertubercular groove of the humerus
ActionsExtends the arm; Adducts the arm; Rotates the arm inward (medial rotation)
Nerve supplyThoracodorsal nerve (C6–C8)

◆ Good to know

It is the climbing and pull-up muscle; its large flap is also used in reconstructive surgery, tested clinically by feeling it contract when the patient coughs.

Please note: This page is an anatomy education summary for students and curious readers, not medical advice. Attachment points are given in their classic short form; individual anatomy varies, and detailed dissection-level descriptions belong in an anatomy atlas.