Exploring the multifidus muscles
What does the name of the multifidus muscles mean?
The name multifidus comes from two Latin words:- “multi” meaning many
- “fidere” meaning to cleave or split into parts
Where do the multifidus muscles attach?
The group of multifidus muscles are located along the spine and deep to (underneath) the erector spinae muscles.Origin
They originate on the posterior sacrum, posterior superior iliac spine, and transverse processes of all vertebrae from the lumbar to C3.Insertion
Each multifidus muscle runs from its origin to insert 2-4 vertebrae above that on the spinous processes of the lumbar vertebrae through C2.What actions do the multifidus muscles do?
They function bilaterally to extend the spine. Unilaterally they contribute to side-bending or flexion of the spine to the same side. Unilaterally they also rotate the spine to the opposite side.Poses where the multifidus muscles contract:
Poses where the multifidus muscles are lengthened:
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