Multifidus Anatomy

Overview of the Multifidus Muscle

The multifidus is a deep muscle located in the back, situated beneath the semispinalis muscle and most developed in the lumbar area. It is responsible for stabilizing the vertebral column, and is supplied by multiple arteries localised to the region along the vertebral column.

Attachments

The multifidus muscle has a broad origin, arising from the sacrum, posterior iliac spine, common tendinous origin of the erector spinae, lumbar vertebrae, transverse processes of T1-T3 and articular processes of C4-C7. Its fibers ascend 2-4 vertebral segments, attaching to the vertebral spinous processes.

Actions

The action of the multifidus muscle is to stabilise the vertebral column.

Innervation

The multifidus muscle is innervated by the posterior rami of the spinal nerves.

Blood Supply

The multifidus muscle is supplied by multiple arteries localised to the region along the vertebral column. These include the vertebral, deep cervical, and occipital arteries in the cervical region; as well as the dorsal branches of posterior intercostal and subcostal arteries in the thoracic region.

Exercises for Multifidus Muscle

Exercises for the multifidus muscle should focus on strengthening the multifidus muscles, which serve to stabilise the spine and help to prevent or reduce the occurrence of back pain. Here are some exercises that can be done to strengthen the multifidus muscle:

• Superman – Lie face down on the floor and raise both arms and legs off the floor as if you were “flying”. Hold this position for 10 seconds, then lower your arms and legs. Repeat 10 times.
• Trunk Rotation – Lie on your back and hold a weight in both hands. Rotate your shoulders and trunk from side to side while keeping your hips and legs still. Do 10-15 repetitions on each side.
• Bridge with alternating leg lift – Lie on your back with your legs bent at the knees. Lift your hips off the floor and hold for 5 seconds. While still in a bridge position, lift one of your legs off of the floor and hold for 5 seconds. Return to the starting position and alternate legs. Do 10 repetitions.
• Plank – Get into a push-up position, but rest your weight on your forearms instead of your hands. Hold this position for 30 seconds, then rest and repeat 3 times.
• Bird Dog – Get on all fours and tighten your abdominal muscles. Raise your right arm and left leg at the same time and hold for 5 seconds. Lower both limbs and alternate with the left arm and right leg. Repeat 10 times.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the multifidus muscle is a deep muscle located in the back, responsible for stabilizing the vertebral column. It is supplied by multiple arteries and innervated by the posterior rami of the spinal nerves. Exercises that focus on strengthening the multifidus muscle can help to prevent or reduce the occurrence of back pain.