Trunk (thorax, abdomen, back)
Levatores Costarum Longi (Long Costal Levators)
Musculi levatores costarum longi
- Origin
- Transverse process of T7-T10
- Insertion
- The rib two levels below (skipping the next rib)
- Function
- Elevation of the ribs; assists inspiration and rotation of the thoracic spine
- Innervation
- Dorsal rami of the thoracic spinal nerves
- Movement & chain
- Occur only in the lower thoracic segments alongside the short costal levators and provide a slightly greater leverage on the ribs there.
- Palpation
- Spans across two rib levels in the lower thoracic cage; deep beneath erector spinae and rhomboids.
- Clinical
- Accessory inspiratory muscles during heavy ventilation; subject to spasm in costovertebral subluxations.
- Segmental innervation
- Dorsal rami T7-T10.
- In clinical practice
- Skin and pressure point inspection; maintain comfortable positioning and proper body mechanics during patient handling and daily care.
- Region in the model
- Trunk (thorax, abdomen, back)