Back to muscle library
Posterior anatomical illustration of the latissimus dorsi muscle
Leo Testut, Wikimedia Commons, public domain Image source

Back

Latissimus dorsi

Extends. adducts. and medially rotates the arm

Origin
Lower thoracic vertebrae, thoracolumbar fascia, iliac crest, and lower ribs
Insertion
Floor of the intertubercular sulcus of the humerus
Primary actions
Extends. adducts. and medially rotates the arm

Anatomy source

OpenStax Anatomy and Physiology 2e — Pectoral Girdle and Upper Limbs

Open reference

Educational anatomy reference only. This page does not diagnose pain, injury, or movement limitations.

From anatomy to action

Explore the movement, not just the muscle.

A single muscle rarely explains a movement by itself. Use the related movement content to see how this anatomy may contribute, then choose a focused program when you want a complete progression.

Movement guides and exercises

Complete guided progressions

Ready to follow a focused plan?

These programs include this muscle through a related guide or corrective recipe.