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The Spinalis is a member of the Erector Spinae (Paraspinal*) group, composed of:
- Iliocostalis
- Longissimus
- Spinalis
*The term paraspinal usually denotes the muscles of the erector spinae group as well as the muscles of the transversospinalis group.
The Spinalis is usually described as having three parts: Spinalis Thoracis, Spinalis Cervicis, and Spinalis Capitis. However, usually only the thoracic portion is developed and able to be located in a cadaver.
ATTACHMENTS:
- Thoracis: Spinous processes of T11-L2 to the spinous processes of T4-T8.
- Cervicis: Spinous process of C7 to the spinous process of C2.
- Capitis: The spinalis capitis usually blends into and considered to be part of the semispinalis capitis of the transversospinalis group.
ACTIONS:
- Extends the neck and trunk at the spinal joints.
- Laterally flexes the neck and trunk at the spinal joints
NOTES:
- The spinalis is, by far, the smallest of the three subgroups of the erector spinae group.
- The spinalis cervicis and capitis are usually absent.
