The levatores costarum is a set of deep muscles of the back which consists of 12 small paired muscles. They can also be considered a deep chest wall muscle group.
The levatores costarum originate from the transverse processes of C7-T11 and attach to the rib below.
The primary action of the levatores costarum is to elevate the ribs during respiration. This set of muscles also contributes to the lateral flexion of the vertebral column.
The levatores costarum are innervated by the posterior rami of the spinal nerves T1 to T12.
The blood supply to the levatores costarum is provided by the posterior intercostal arteries.
The primary function of the levatores costarum is to provide support to the vertebral column and assist in breathing. Weakness or atrophy of these muscles can cause severe pain and discomfort in the back. It can also cause an inability to perform certain activities, such as lifting objects due to the inability to stabilize the vertebral column correctly.
When the levatores costarum are weakened or damaged, it can lead to a number of clinical issues, such as increased curvature of the spine or decreased range of motion in the back. Additionally, weakened levatores costarum can also cause poor posture and an increased risk of injury or pain in the neck and shoulders.
It is important to note that levatores costarum can often be weakened without showing any apparent symptoms. As a result, it is important to seek medical attention if you experience any pain or discomfort in the back. Also, performing regular stretching and strengthening exercises can help keep the levatores costarum in optimal condition and prevent the risk of future injury or discomfort.
The diagnosis of weakened levatores costarum is usually done through physical assessments and imaging tests such as X-rays or CT scans. In some cases, additional tests such as muscle testing or nerve conduction tests may also be requested.
Treatment for weakened levatores costarum is typically focused on strengthening the muscles to restore normal function. This can be done through physical therapy, stretching exercises, and strengthening exercises. In some cases, additional treatments or medications may be needed to reduce inflammation and pain.
Surgery may also be recommended in cases where the muscles are severely weakened. This procedure usually involves removing scar tissue or correcting any structural issues in the muscles. Surgery is usually only recommended as a last resort in cases where the other treatments have failed.
The levatores costarum are a set of deep paired muscles of the back which originate from the transverse processes of C7-T11 and attach to the rib below. Their primary action is to elevate the ribs during respiration and contribute to the lateral flexion of the vertebral column. They are innervated by the posterior rami of the spinal nerves T1 to T12 and are supplied by the posterior intercostal arteries.
Weakness or damage of the levatores costarum can lead to various clinical issues, including increased curvature of the spine, decreased range of motion in the back, or poor posture. It is important to perform regular stretching and strengthening exercises to prevent the risk of future injury or discomfort. Diagnosis and treatment typically involve physical assessments, imaging tests, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery.
