Origin
T7-L5 vertebrae, ilium, scapula, ribs, thoracolumbar fascia.
Insertion
Humerus – intertubercular groove.
Blood supply
Subscapular artery.
Nerve supply
Thoracodorsal nerve.
Action
Latissimus dorsi helps in the extension and rotation of the arm. Activities such as climbing stairs and swimming necessitate the use of this muscle.
Disease/Injury
A stiff latissimus dorsi can cause chronic pain in the shoulder and back.
Muscle Exercise
Exercises like pull-ups, rowing and boxing helps to strengthen the latissimus dorsi muscles.
Interesting facts
‘Lats’ is the commonly used term for the ‘latissimus dorsi.’
