Openings in the Base of the Skull and the structures that pass through them

1
Openings in the Skull Bone of the Skull Structures Transmitted
Anterior Cranial Fossa
Perforations in the Cribriform plate Ethmoid Olfactory nerves
Middle Cranial Fossa
Optic Canal Lesser wing of the Sphenoid Optic nerve, ophthalmic artery
Superior Orbital Fissure Between lesser and greater wings of the Lacrimal, frontal, trochlear, oculomotor,
Sphenoid nasociliary and abducent nerves; superior
ophthalmic vein
Foramen Rotundum Greater wing of the Sphenoid Maxillary Division of the Trigeminal Nerve
Foramen Ovale Greater wing of the Sphenoid Mandibular division of the Trigeminal
Nerve
Foramen Spinosum Greater wing of the Sphenoid Middle meningeal artery
Foramen Lacerum Between petrous part of temporal and Internal carotid artery
Sphenoid
Posterior Cranial Fossa
Foramen Magnum Occipital Medulla Oblongata, spinal part of accessory
nerve, and right and left vertebral arteries
Hypoglossal Canal Occipital Hypoglossal nerve
Jugular Foramen Between petrous part of temporal and Glossopharyngeal, vagus, and accessory
condylar part of occipital nerves; sigmoid sinus becomes internal
jugular vein
Internal Acoustic Meatus Petrous part of temporal Vestibulocochlear and facial nerves

Muscles of the Eyeball and Eyelids

Muscle Origin Insertion Innervation Action

Extrinsic Muscles of Eyeball (Striated Skeletal Muscle)
Superior Rectus Tendinous ring on Superior surface of CNIII Raises cornea upward
posterior wall of orbital eyeball just posterior to and medially
cavity corneoscleral junction
Inferior Rectus Tendinous ring on Inferior surface of CNIII Depresses cornea
posterior wall of orbital eyeball just posterior to downward and medially
cavity corneoscleral junction
Medial Rectus Tendinous ring on Medial surface of eyeball CNIII Rotates eyeball so that
posterior wall of orbital just posterior to cornea looks medially
cavity corneoscleral junction
Lateral Rectus Tendinous ring on Lateral surface of eyeball CNVI Rotates eyeball so that
posterior wall of orbital just posterior to cornea looks laterally
cavity corneoscleral junction
Superior Oblique Posterior wall of orbital Passes through pulley CNIV Rotates eyeball so that
cavity and is attached to cornea looks downward
superior surface of and laterally
eyeball beneath superior
rectus
Inferior Oblique Floor of orbital cavity Lateral surface of eyeball CNIII Rotates eyeball so that
deep to lateral rectus cornea looks upward
and laterally
Intrinsic Muscles of Eyeball (Smooth Muscle)
Sphincter Pupillae of Parasympathetic via Constricts pupil
Iris CNIII
Dilatory Pupillae of Sympathetic Dilates pupil
Iris
Ciliary Muscle Parasympathetic via Controls shape of lens;
CNIII in accommodation,
makes lens more
globular

Orbicularis Oculi
 Palpebral Part Medial palpebral
ligament
 Orbital Part Medial palpebral
ligament and adjoining
bone
Levator Palpebrae Back of orbital cavity
Superioris
2
Muscles of Eyelids
Lateral palpebral raphe Facial nerve Closes eyelids and
dilates lacrimal sac
Loops return to origin Facial nerve Throws skin around
orbit into folds to
protect eyeball
Anterior surface and Striated muscle Raises upper lid
upper margin of oculomotor nerve,
superior tarsal plate smooth muscle
Sympathetic

Muscles of the Head

Muscle Origin Insertion Innervation Action

Muscle of Scalp
Occipitofrontalis
 Occipital belly Highest nuchal line of Epicranial aponeurosis Facial nerve Moves scalp on skull and
occipital bone raises eyebrows
 Frontal belly Skin and superficial facia
of eyebrows
Muscles of Facial Expression
Orbicularis Oculi
 Palpebral Part Medial palpebral ligament Lateral palpebral raphe Facial nerve Closes eyelids and dilates
lacrimal sac
 Orbital Part Medial palpebral ligament Loops return to origin Facial nerve Throws skin around orbit
and adjoining bone into folds to protect
eyeball
Corrugator Supercilii Superciliary arch Skin of eyebrow Facial nerve Vertical wrinkles of
forehead, as in frowning
Compressor Nasi Frontal process of maxilla Aponeurosis of bridge of Facial nerve Compresses mobile nasal
nose cartilages
Dilator Naris Maxilla Ala of nose Facial nerve Widens nasal aperture
Procerus Nasal bone Skin between eyebrows Facial nerve Wrinkles skin of nose
Orbicularis Oris Maxilla, mandible and skin Encircles oral orifice Facial nerve Compresses lips together
Dilator Muscles of Lips
Levator Labii
Superioris Alaeque
Nasi
Levator Labii
Superioris
Zygomaticus Minor
Arise from bones and fascia around oral aperture and
Zygomaticus Major Facial nerve Separate lips
insert into substance of lips
Levator Anguli Oris
Risorius
Depressor Anguli Oris
Depressor Labii
Inferioris
Mentalis
Buccinator Outer surface of alveolar margins of maxilla, mandible Facial nerve Compresses cheeks and
and pterygomandibular ligament lips against teeth
Platysma Deep fascia over Body of mandible and Facial nerve cervical Depresses mandible and
pectoralis major and angle of mouth branch angle of mouth
deltoid
Muscles of Mastication
Masseter Zygomatic arch Lateral surface ramus of Mandibular division of Elevates mandible to
mandible trigeminal nerve occlude teeth
Temporalis Floor of temporal fossa Coronoid process of Mandibular division of Anterior and superior
mandible trigeminal nerve fibers elevate mandible;
posterior fibers retract
mandible
Lateral Pterygoid (two Greater wing of sphenoid Neck of mandible and Mandibular division of Pulls neck of mandible
heads) and lateral pterygoid plate articular sac trigeminal nerve forward
Medial Pterygoid (two Tuberosity of maxilla and Medial surface of angle of Mandibular division of Elevates mandible
heads) lateral pterygoid plate mandible trigeminal nerve
 3
Muscles of Tongue

Muscle Origin Insertion Innervation Action

Intrinsic Muscles
Longitudinal Median septum and Mucous membrane CNXII Alters shape of tongue
submucosa
Transverse
Vertical
Extrinsic Muscles
Genioglossus Superior genial spine of Blends with other CNXII Protrudes apex of
mandible muscles of tongue tongue through mouth
Hyoglossus Body of greater cornu of Blends with other CNXII Depresses tongue
hyoid bone muscles of tongue
Styloglossus Styloid process of Blends with other CNXII Draws tongue upward
temporal bone muscles of tongue and backward
Palatoglossus Palatine aponeurosis Side of tongue Pharyngeal plexus Pulls roots of tongue
upward and backward,
narrows oropharyngeal
isthmus

Muscles of the Neck

Muscle Origin Insertion Innervation Action

Platysma Deep fascia over Body of mandible and Facial nerve cervical Depresses mandible and
pectoralis major and angle of mouth branch angle of mouth
deltoid
SCM Manubrium sterni and Mastoid process of Spinal part of accessory Two muscles acting
medial third of the temporal bone and nerve and C2 and C3 together extend head
clavicle occipital bone and flex neck; one
muscle rotates head to
opposite side
Digastric
 Posterior belly Mastoid process of Intermediate tendon is Facial nerve Depresses mandible or
temporal bone held to hyoid by fascial elevates hyoid bone
sling
 Anterior belly Body of mandible Nerve to mylohyoid
Stylohyoid Styloid process Body of hyoid bone Facial nerve Elevates hyoid bone
Mylohyoid Mylohyoid line of body Body of hyoid bone and Inferior alveolar nerve Elevates floor of mouth
of mandible fibrous raphe and hyoid bone or
depresses mandible
Geniohyoid Inferior mental spine of Body of hyoid bone First cervical nerve Elevates hyoid bone or
mandible depresses mandible
Sternohyoid Manubrium sterni and Body of Hyoid bone Ansa cervicalis; C1, 2 & Depresses hyoid bone
clavicle 3
Sternothyroid Manubrium sterni Oblique line on lamina Ansa cervicalis; C1, 2 & Depresses larynx
of thyroid cartilage 3
Thyrohyoid Oblique line on lamina Lower border of body First cervical nerve Depresses hyoid bone
of thyroid cartilage of hyoid bone or elevates larynx
Omohyoid
 Inferior belly Upper margin of scapula Intermediate tendon is Ansa cervicalis; C1, 2 & Depresses hyoid bone
and suprascapular held to clavicle and first 3
ligament rib by fascial sling
 Superior belly Lower border of body
of hyoid bone
Scalenius Anterior Transverse processes of First rib C4, 5 & 6 Elevates first rib;
3rd, 4th 5th and 6th laterally flexes and
cervical vertebrae rotates cervical part of
vertebral column
Scalenius Medius Transverse processes of First rib Anterior rami of cervical Elevates first rib;
upper six cervical nerves laterally flexes and
vertebrae rotates cervical part of
vertebral column
Scalenius Posterior Transverse process of Second rib Anterior rami of cervical Elevates second rib;
lower cervical vertebrae nerves laterally flexes and
rotates cervical part of
vertebral column
Optic
Nerve
Olfactory

Oculomotor
Sensory

Sensory
Motor
Components
Cranial Nerves

Smell

Vision
Function

Lifts upper eyelid, turns eyeball

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Opening in Skull
Openings in cribriform plate
of ethmoid
Optic canal
Superior Orbital Fissure
upward, downward and medially;
constricts pupil; accommodates eye
Trochlear Motor Assists in turning eyeball downward Superior Orbital fissure
and laterally
Trigeminal
 Ophthalmic Sensory Cornea, skin of forehead, scalp, eyelids Superior Orbital Fissure
division and nose; also mucous membrane of
paranasal sinuses and nasal cavity
 Maxillary division Sensory Skin of face over maxilla and the upper Foramen Rotundum
lip; teeth of upper jaw; mucous
membrane of nose, the maxillary air
sinus, and palate
 Mandibular Motor Muscles of mastication, mylohyoid, Foramen Ovale
division anterior belly of digastrics, tensor veli
palatini and tensor tympani
Sensory Skin of cheek, skin over mandible,
lower lip and side of head; teeth of
lower jaw and temporomandibular
joint; mucous membrane of mouth and
anterior two thirds of tongue
Abducent Motor Lateral rectus muscle: turns eyeball Superior orbital fissure
laterally
Facial Motor Muscles of face, cheek and scalp; Internal acoustic meatus, facial
stapedius muscle of middle ear; canal stylomastoid foramen
stylohyoid; and posterior belly of
digastrics
Sensory Taste from anterior two thirds of
tongue, floor of mouth and palate
Secretomotor Submandibular and sublingual salivary
parasympathetic glands, lacrimal gland and glands of
nose and palate
Vestibulocochlear
 Vestibular Sensory Position and movement of head Internal acoustic meatus
 Cochlear Sensory Hearing
Glossopharyngeal Motor Stylopharyngeus muscle; assists Jugular Foramen
swallowing
Secretomotor Parotid salivary gland
parasympathetic
Sensory General sensation and taste from
posterior third of tongue and pharynx;
carotid sinus and carotid body
Vagus Motor Constrictor muscles of phaynx and Jugular Foramen
intrinsic muscles of larynx; involuntary
muscle of trachea and bronchi, heart,
alimentary tract from pharynx to
splenix flexure of colon; liver and
pancreas
Sensory Taste from epiglottis and vallecula and
afferent fibers from structures named
above
Accessory
 Cranial root Motor Muscles of soft palate, pharynx and Jugular Foramen
larynx
 Spinal root Motor Sternocleidomastoid and trapezius
muscles
Hypoglossal Motor Muscles of tongue controlling its shape Hypoglossal Canal
and movement (except palatoglossus)
 Muscles Connecting the Upper Limb to the Thoracic Wall/ Muscles of the Pectoral Region (except Serratus Anterior)
Muscle Origin
Pectoralis Major Clavicle, sternum and
upper six costal
cartilages
Pectoralis Minor 3rd, 4th and 5th ribs
Subclavius First costal cartilage
Serratus Anterior Upper eight ribs
Muscles Connecting the Upper limb to the Vertebral Column/ Superficial (Appendicular) Group of Back Muscles
Muscle Origin
Trapezius Occipital bone,
ligamentum nuchae,
spine of 7th cervical
vertebra, spines of all
thoracic vertebra
Latissimus Dorsi Iliac crest, lumbar fascia,
spines of lower six
thoracic vertebrae,
lower three or four ribs,
and inferior angle of the
scapula
Levator Scapulae Transverse processes of
first four cervical
vertebrae
Rhomboid Minor Ligamentum nuchae and
spines of 7th cervical
vertebra and 1st thoracic
vertebra
Rhomboid Major 2nd to 5th thoracic spines
Muscles Connecting the Scapula to the Humerus
Muscle Origin
Deltoid Lateral third of clavicle,
acromion, spine of
scapula
Supraspinatus Supraspinous fossa of
scapula
Infraspinatus Infraspinous fossa
Teres Major Lower third of lateral
border of scapula
Teres Minor Upper two thirds of
lateral border of the
scapula
Subscapularis Subscapular fossa
Insertion
Lateral lip of the bicipital
groove of humerus
Coracoid process of
scapula
Clavicle
Medial border and inferior
angle of the scapula
Insertion
Upper fibers into lateral
third of clavicle; middle and
lower fibers into acromion
and spine of the scapula
Floor of bicipital groove of
humerus
Medial border of the
scapula
Medial border of the
scapula
Medial border of scapula
Insertion
Middle of lateral surface of
shaft of humerus
Greater tuberosity of
humerus; capsule of
shoulder joint
Greater tuberosity of
humerus; capsule of
shoulder joint
Medial lip of bicipital
groove of humerus
Greater tuberosity of the
humerus; capsule of
shoulder joint
Lesser tuberosity of
humerus
Innervation
Medial and lateral pectoral
nerves form brachial
plexus
Medial pectoral nerve
from brachial plexus
Nerve to subclavius from
upper trunk of brachial
plexus
Long thoracic nerve
Innervation
Spinal part of accessory
nerve (motor) and C3 and
C4 (sensory)
Thoracodorsal nerve
C3 and C4 and dorsal
scapular nerve
Dorsal scapular nerve
Dorsal scapular nerve
Innervation
Axillary nerve
Spurascapular nerve
Suprascapular nerve
Lower subscapular nerve
Axillary nerve
Upper and lower
subscapular nerves
5
Action
Adducts arm and rotates it
medially; clavicular fibers
also flex arm
Depresses point of
shoulder; if the scapula is
fixed, it elevates the ribs of
origin
Depresses the clavicle and
steadies this bone during
movements of the shoulder
girdle
Draws the scapula forward
around the thoracic wall;
rotates the scapula
Action
Upper fibers elevate the
scapula; middle fibers pull
the scapula medially; lower
fibers pull medial border of
the scapula downward
Extends, adducts and
medially rotates the arm
Raises medial border of the
scapula
Raises medial border of
scapula upward and medially
Raises medial border of
scapula upward and medially
Action
Abducts arm; anterior fibers
flex and medially rotate
arm; posterior fibers extend
and laterally rotate arm
Abducts arm and stabilizes
shoulder joint
Laterally rotates arm and
stabilizes shoulder joint
Medially rotates and
adducts arm and stabilizes
shoulder joint
Laterally rotates arm
stabilizes shoulder joint
Medially rotates arm and
stabilizes shoulder joint

Muscle Origin
Anterior Compartment
Biceps Brachii
 Long head Supraglenoid tubercle of
scapula
 Short head Coracoid process of
scapula
Coracobrachialis Coracoid process of
scapula
Brachialis Front of lower half of
humerus
Posterior Compartment
Triceps
 Long head Infraglenoid tubercle of
scapula
 Lateral head Upper half of posterior
surface of shaft of
humerus
 Medial head Lower half of posterior
surface of shaft of
humerus
Muscles of the Anterior Fascial Compartment of the Forearm
Muscle Origin
Pronator Teres
 Humeral head Medial epicondyle of
humerus
 Ulnar head Medial border of
coronoid process of
ulna
Flexor Carpi Radialis Medial epicondyle of
humerus
Palmaris Longus Medial epicondyle of
humerus
Flexor Carpi Ulnaris
 Humeral head Medial epicondyle of
humerus
 Ulnar head Medial aspect of
olecranon process and
posterior border of ulna
Flexor Digitorum
Superficialis
 Humeroulnar Medial epicondyle of
head humerus; medial border
of coronoid process of
ulna
 Radial head Oblique line on anterior
surface of shaft of radius
Flexor Pollicis Anterior surface of shaft
Longus of radius
Flexor Digitorum Anteromedial surface of
Profundus shaft of ulna
Pronator Quadratus Anterior surface of shaft
of ulna
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Muscles of the Arm
Insertion Innervation Action
Tuberosity of radius and Musculocutaneous nerve Supinator of forearm
bicipital aponeurosis and flexor of elbow
into deep fascia of joint; weak flexor of
forearm shoulder joint
Medial aspect of shaft of Musculocutaneous nerve Flexes arm and also
humerus weak adductor
Coronoid process of Musculocutaneous nerve Flexor of elbow joint
ulna
Olecranon process of
Radial nerve Extensor of elbow joint
ulna
Insertion Innervation Action
Lateral aspect of the Pronation and flexion of
Median nerve
shaft of radius forearm
Bases of 2nd and 3rd Median nerve Flexes and abducts hand
metacarpal bones at wrist joint
Flexor retinaculum and Median nerve Flexes hand
palmar aponeurosis
Pisiform bone, hook of
Flexes and adducts hand
the hamate, base at 5th Ulnar nerve
at wrist joint
metacarpal bone
Flexes middle phalanx of
Middle phalanx of medial fingers and assists in
Median nerve
four fingers flexing proximal phalanx
and hand
Distal phalanx of thumb Anterior interosseus Flexes distal phalanx of
branch of median nerve thumb
Distal phalanges of Ulnar (medial half) and Flexes distal phalanx of
medial four fingers median (lateral half) fingers; then assists in
nerves flexion of middle and
proximal phalanges and
wrist
Anterior surface of shaft Anterior interosseus Pronates forearm
or radius branch of median nerve
 7
Muscles of the Lateral Fascial Compartment of the Forearm

Muscle Origin Insertion Innervation Action

Brachioradialis Lateral supracondylar
ridge of humerus
Extensor Carpi Lateral supracondylar
Radialis Longus ridge pf the humerus
Base of styloid process
of radius
Posterior surface of
base of 2nd metacarpal
bone
Radial nerve Flexes forearm at elbow
joint; rotates forearm to
the midprone position
Radial nerve Extends and abducts
hand at wrist joint

Muscles of the Posterior Fascial Compartment of the Forearm

Muscle Origin Insertion Innervation Action

Extensor Carpi Lateral epicondyle of
Radialis Brevis humerus
Extensor Digitorum Lateral epicondyle of
humerus
Extensor Digiti Lateral epicondyle of
Minimi humerus
Extensor Carpi Lateral epicondyle of
Ulnaris humerus
Anconeus Lateral epicondyle of
humerus
Supinator Lateral epicondyle of
humerus
Abductor Pollicis Posterior surface of
Longus shaft of radius and ulna
Extensor Pollicis Posterior surface of
Brevis shaft or radius
Extensor Pollicis Posterior surface of
Longus shaft of ulna
Extensor Indicis Posterior surface of
shaft of ulna
Small Muscles of the Hand
Posterior surface of Deep branch of radial Extends and abducts hand
base of third metacarpal nerve at wrist joint
bone
Middle and distal Deep branch of radial Extends fingers and hand
phalanges of medial nerve
four fingers
Extensor expansion of Deep branch of radial Extends
little finger nerve metacarpophalangeal joint
of little finger
Base of fifth metacarpal Deep branch of radial Extends and adducts hand
bone nerve at wrist joint
Lateral surface of Radial nerve Extends elbow joint
olecranon process of
ulna
Neck and shaft of Deep branch of radial Supination of forearm
radius nerve
Base of first metacarpal Deep branch of radial Extends and abducts thumb
bone nerve
Base of proximal Deep branch of radial Extends
phalanx of thumb nerve metacarpophalangeal joint
of thumb
Base of distal phalanx of Deep branch of radial Extends distal phalanx of
thumb nerve thumb
Extensor expansion of Deep branch of radial Extends
index finger nerve metacarpophalangeal joint
of index finger

Muscle Origin Insertion Innervation Action

Palmaris Brevis Flexor retinaculum, Skin of palm Superficial branch of Corrugates skin to improve
palmar aponeurosis ulnar nerve grip of palm
Lumbricals (4) Tendons of flexor Extensor expansion of 1st and 2nd (i.e. lateral Flexes metacarpophalangeal
digitorum profundus medial four fingers two) median nerve; 3rd joints and extend
and 4th deep branch of interphalangeal joints of
ulnar nerve fingers except thumb
Interossei (8)
 Palmar (4) First arises from base of Proximal phalanges of Deep branch of ulnar Palmar interossei adduct
1st metacarpal; thumb and index, ring nerve fingers toward center of
remaining three from and little fingers and third finger
anterior surface of dorsal extensor
shafts of 2nd, 4th and 5th expansion of each
metacarpals finger
 Dorsal (4) Contiguous sidesof Proximal phalanges of Deep branch of ulnar Dorsal interossei abduct
shafts of metacarpal index, middle and ring nerve fingers from center of third
bones fingers and dorsal finger; both palmar and
extensor expansion dorsal flex
metacarpophalangeal joints
and extend interphalangeal
joints
Short Muscles of Thumb (Thenar Muscles; pollicis- thumb)
Abductor Pollicis Scaphoid, trapezium, Base of proximal Median nerve Abduction of thumb
Brevis flexor retinaculum phalanx of thumb
Flexor Pollicis Flexor retinaculum Base of proximal Median nerve Flexes metacarpophalangeal
Brevis phalanx of thumb joint of thumb
 8
Opponens Pollicis Flexor retinaculum Shaft of metacarpal Median nerve Pulls thumb medially and
bone of thumb forward across palm
Adductor Pollicis Oblique head; 2nd and Base of proximal Deep branch of ulnar Adduction of thumb
3rd metacarpal bones; phalanx of thumb nerve
transverse head; 3rd
metacarpal bone
Short Muscles of Little Finger (Hypothenar Muscles; digiti minimi- 5th digit)
Abductor Digiti Pisiform bone Base of proximal Deep branch of ulnar Abducts little finger
Minimi phalanx of little finger nerve
Flexor Digiti Minimi Flexor retinaculum Base of proximal Deep branch of ulnar Flexes little finger
phalanx of little finger nerve

Opponens Digiti Flexor retinaculum Medial border of 5th Deep branch of ulnar Pulls 5th metacarpal forward
Minimi metacarpal bone nerve as in cupping the palm

Summary of the Branches of the Brachial Plexus and their Distribution

Branches Distribution
Roots
Dorsal Scapular Nerve (C5) Rhomboid minor, rhomboid major, levator scapulae
Long Thoracic Nerve (C5, 6, 7) Serratus anterior
Upper Trunk
Suprascapular Nerve (C5, 6) Supraspinatus and infraspinatus
Nerve to Subclavius (C5, 6) Subclavius
Lateral Cord
Lateral Pectoral Nerve (C5, 6, 7) Pectoralis major
Musculocutaneous Nerve (C5, 6, 7) Coracobrachialis, biceps brachii, brachialis; supplies skin along
lateral border of forearm when it becomes the lateral cutaneous
nerve of the forearm
Lateral root of Median Nerve (C5, 6, 7) (See medial root of median nerve)
Posterior Cord
Upper Subscapular Nerve (C5, 6) Subscapularis
Thoracodorsal Nerve (C6, 7, 8) Latissimus dorsi
Lower Subscapular Nerve (C5, 6) Subscapularis and teres major
Axillary Nerve (C5, 6) Deltoid and teres minor; upper and lateral cutaneous nerve of
arm supplies skin over lower half of deltoid muscle
Radial Nerve (C5, 6, 7, 8; T1) Triceps, anconeus, part of brachialis, ECRL; via deep radial nerve
branch supplies extensor muscles of forearm: supinator, ECRB,
ECU, ED, EDM, EI, AbPL, EPL, EPB; skin, lower lateral cutaneous
nerve of arm, posterior cutaneous nerve of arm, and posterior
cutaneous nerve of forearm; skin on lateral side of dorsum of
hand and dorsal surface of lateral three and a half of fingers;
articular branches to elbow, wrist and hand
Medial Cord
Medial Pectoral Nerve (C8; T1) Pectoralis major and pectoralis minor
Medial Cutaneous Nerve of arm joined by intercostals Skin of medial side of arm
brachial nerve from second intercostals nerve (C8; T1, 2)
Medial Cutaneous Nerve of forearm (C8; T1) Skin of medial side of forearm
Ulnar Nerve (C8; T1) FCU and medial half of FDP, FDM, ODM, AbDM, AdP, 3rd and 4th
lumbricals, interossei, PB, skin of medial half of dorsum of hand
and palm, skin of palmar and dorsal surfaces of medial one and a
half fingers
Medial root of Median Nerve (with lateral root) forms PT, FCR, PL, FDS, AbPB, FPB, OP, first two lumbricals (by way of
Median Nerve (C5, 6, 7, 8; T1) anterior interosseus branch), FPL, FDP (lateral half), PQ, palmar
cutaneous branch to lateral half of palm and digital branches to
palmar surface of lateral three and a half fingers; articular
branches to elbow, wrist and carpal joints
 Muscles of the Gluteal Region
9
Muscle Origin Insertion Nerve Supply Action
Gluteus Outer surface of ilium, Iliotibial tract and gluteal Inferior gluteal nerve Extends and laterally rotates hip
maximus sacrum, coccyx, tuberosity of femur joint; through iliotibial tract, it
sacrotuberous ligament extends knee joint
Gluteus medius Outer surface of ilium Lateral surface of greater Superior gluteal nerve Abducts thigh at hip joint; tilts pelvis
trochanter of femur when walking to permit opposite leg
to clear ground
Gluteus Outer surface of ilium Anterior surface of greater Superior gluteal nerve Abducts thigh at hip joint; tilts pelvis
minimus trochanter of femur when walking to permit opposite leg
to clear ground
Tensor fasciae Iliac crest Iliotibial tract Superior gluteal nerve Assists gluteus maximus in extending
latae the knee joint
Piriformis Anterior surface of sacrum Upper border of greater First and second sacral Lateral rotator of thigh at hip joint
trochanter of femur nerves
Obturator Inner surface of obturator Upper border of greater Sacral plexus Lateral rotator of thigh at hip joint
internus membrane trochanter of femur
Gemellus Spine of ischium Upper border of greater Sacral plexus Lateral rotator of thigh at hip joint
superior trochanter of femur
Gemellus Ischial tuberosity Upper border of greater Sacral plexus Lateral rotator of thigh at hip joint
inferior trochanter of femur
Quadratus Lateral border of ischial Quadrate tubercle of Sacral plexus Lateral rotator of thigh at hip joint
femoris tuberosity femur

Muscles of the Anterior Fascial Compartment of the Thigh

Muscle Origin Insertion Nerve Supply Action

Sartorius Anterior superior iliac Upper medial surface of Femoral nerve Flexes, abducts, laterally rotates thigh
spine shaft of tibia at hip joint; flexes and medially
rotates leg at knee joint
Iliacus Iliac fossa of hip bone With psoas into lesser Femoral nerve Flexes thigh on trunk; if thigh is fixed,
trochanter of femur it flexes the trunk on the thigh as in
sitting up from lying down
Psoas Transverse processes, With iliacus into lesser Lumbar plexus Flexes thigh on trunk; if thigh is fixed,
bodies, and intervertebral trochanter of femur it flexes the trunk on thigh as in
discs of the 12th thoracic sitting up from lying down
and five lumbar vertebrae
Pectineus Superior ramus of pubis Upper end of linea aspera Femoral nerve Flexes and adducts thigh at hip joint
of shaft of femur
Quadriceps
femoris
Rectus Straight head: anterior Quadriceps tendon into Femoral nerve Extension of leg at knee joint; flexes
femoris inferior iliac spine patella, then via ligamentum thigh at hip joint
Reflected head: ilium above patellae into tubercle of
acetabulum tibia
Vastus Upper end and shaft of Quadriceps tendon into Femoral nerve Extension of leg at knee joint
lateralis femur patella, then via ligamentum
patellae into tubercle of
tibia
Vastus Upper end and shaft of Quadriceps tendon into Femoral nerve Extension of leg at knee joint;
medialis femur patella, then via ligamentum stabilizes patella
patellae into tubercle of
tibia
Vastus Anterior and lateral Quadriceps tendon into Femoral nerve Extension of leg at knee joint;
intermedius surfaces of shaft of femur patella, then via ligamentum articularis genus retracts synovial
patellae into tubercle of membrane
tibia
 Muscle
Gracilis

Adductor
Origin

ramus of ischium
Muscles of the Medial Fascial Compartment of the Thigh

Inferior ramus of pubis,

Body of pubis, medial to

Insertion Nerve Supply
Upper part of shaft of tibia Obturator nerve
on medial surface
Posterior surface of shaft Obturator nerve
Action10
Adducts thigh at hip joint; flexes leg
at knee joint
Adducts thigh at hip joint and assists
longus pubic tubercle of femur (linea aspera) in lateral rotation
Adductor Inferior ramus of pubis Posterior surface of shaft Obturator nerve Adducts thigh at hip joint and assists
brevis of femur (linea aspera) in lateral rotation
Adductor Inferior ramus of pubis, Posterior surface of shaft Adductor portion: Adducts thigh at hip joint and assists
magnus ramus of ischium, ischial of femur, adductor tubercle obturator nerve in lateral rotation; hamstring
tuberosity of femur Hamstring portion: portion extends thigh at hip joint
sciatic nerve
Obturator Outer surface of obturator Medial surface of greater Obturator nerve Laterally rotates thigh at hip joint
externus membrane and pubic and trochanter
ischial rami

Muscles of the Posterior Fascial Compartment of the Thigh

Muscle Origin Insertion Nerve Supply Action

Biceps femoris Long head: ischial Head of fibula Long head: tibial Flexes and laterally rotates leg
tuberosity portion of sciatic nerve at knee joint; long head also
extends thigh at hip joint
Short head: linea aspera, Short head: common
lateral supracondylar ridge peroneal portion of
of shaft of femur sciatic nerve
Semitendinosus Ischial tuberosity Upper part of medial Tibial portion of sciatic Flexes and medially rotates leg
surface of shaft of tibia nerve at knee joint; extends thigh at
hip joint
Semimembranosus Ischial tuberosity Medial condyle of tibia Tibial portion of sciatic Flexes and medially rotates leg
nerve at knee joint; extends thigh at
hip joint
Adductor magnus Ischial tuberosity Adductor tubercle of Tibial portion of sciatic Extends thigh at hip joint
(hamstring femur nerve
portion)

Muscles of the Anterior Fascial Compartment of the Leg

Muscle Origin Insertion Nerve Supply Action

Tibialis anterior Lateral surface of shaft of Medial cuneiform and base Deep peroneal nerve Extendsb foot at ankle joint; inverts
tibia and interosseous of first metatarsal bone foot at subtalar and transverse
membrane tarsal joints; holds up medial
longitudinall arch of foot
Extensor Anterior surface of shaft of Extensor expansion of Deep peroneal nerve Extends toes; extends foot at ankle
digitorum fibula lateral four toes joint
longus
Peroneus Anterior surface of shaft of Base of fifth metatarsal Deep peroneal nerve Extends foot at ankle joint; everts
tertius fibula bone foot at subtalar and transverse
tarsal joints
Extensor Anterior surface of shaft of Base of distal phalanx of Deep peroneal nerve Extends big toe; extends foot at
hallucis longus fibula great toe ankle joint; inverts foot at subtalar
and transverse tarsal joints
Extensor Calcaneum By four tendons into the Deep peroneal nerve
digitorum proximal phalanx of big toe
brevis and long extensor tendons
to second, third, and fourth
toes
 11
Muscles of the Lateral Fascial Compartment of the Leg

Muscle Origin Insertion Nerve Supply Action

Peroneus Lateral surface of shaft of Base of first metatarsal and Superficial peroneal Plantar flexes foot at ankle joint;
longus fibula the medial cuneiform nerve everts foot at subtalar and
transverse tarsal joints; supports
lateral longitudinal and transverse
arches of foot
Peroneus brevis Lateral surface of fibula Base of fifth metatarsal Superficial peroneal Plantar flexes foot at ankle joint;
shaft of fibula bone nerve everts foot at subtalar and
transverse tarsal joint; supports
lateral longitudinal arch of foot

Muscles of the Posterior Fascial Compartment of the Leg

Muscle Origin Insertion Nerve Supply Action

Superficial Group
Gastrocnemius Lateral head from lateral Via tendo calcaneus into Tibial nerve Plantar flexes foot at ankle joint;
condyle of femur and posterior surface of flexes knee joint
medial head from above calcaneum
medial condyle
Plantaris Lateral supracondylar ridge Posterior surface of Tibial nerve Plantar flexes foot at ankle joint;
of femur calcaneum flexes knee joint
Soleus Shafts of tibia and fibula Via tendo calcaneus into Tibial nerve Together with gastrocnemius and
posterior surface of plantaris is powerful plantar flexor
calcaneum of ankle joint; provides main
propulsive force in walking and
running
Deep Group
Popliteus Lateral surface of lateral Posterior surface of shaft Tibial nerve Flexes leg at knee joint; unlocks
condyle of femur of tibia above soleal line knee joint by lateral rotation of
femur on tibia and slackens
ligaments of joint
Flexor Posterior surface of shaft Bases of distal phalanges of Tibial nerve Flexes distal phalanges of lateral
digitorum of tibia lateral four toes four toes; plantar flexes foot at
longus ankle joint; supports medial and
lateral longitudinal arches of foot
Flexor hallucis Posterior surface of shaft Base of distal phalanx of big Tibial nerve Flexes distal phalanx of big toe;
longus of fibula toe plantar flexes foot at ankle joint;
supports medial longitudinal arch of
foot
Tibialis Posterior surface of shafts Tuberosity of navicular Tibial nerve Plantar flexes foot at ankle joint;
posterior of tibia and fibula and bone and other inverts foot at subtalar and
interosseous membrane neighboring bones transverse tarsal joints; supports
medial longitudinal arch of foot
 12
Muscles of the Sole of the Foot

Muscle Origin Insertion Nerve Supply Action

First Layer
Abductor Medial tuberosity of Base of proximal phalanx of Medial plantar nerve Flexes and abducts big toe; braces
hallucis calcaneum and flexor big toe medial longitudinal arch
retinaculum
Flexor Medial tubercle of Four tendons to four Medial plantar nerve Flexes lateral four toes; braces
digitorum calcaneum lateral toes— inserted medial and lateral longitudinal
brevis into borders of middle arches
phalanx; tendons
perforated by those of
flexor digitorum longus
Abductor digiti Medial and lateral tubercles Base of proximal phalanx of Lateral plantar nerve Flexes and abducts fifth toe; braces
minimi of calcaneum fifth toe lateral longitudinal arch
Second Layer
Quadratus Medial and lateral sides of Tendon of flexor digitorum Lateral plantar nerve Assists flexor digitorum longus in
plantae calcaneum longus flexing lateral four toes
Lumbricals (4) Tendons of flexor Dorsal extensor expansion; First lumbrical: medial Extends toes at interphalangeal
digitorum longus bases of proximal phalanges plantar nerve; joints
of lateral four toes remainder: lateral
plantar nerve
Flexor
digitorum
longus tendon
Flexor hallucis
longus tendon
Third Layer
Flexor hallucis Cuboid, lateral cuneiform, Medial tendon into medial Medial plantar nerve Flexes metatarsophalangeal joint of
brevis tibialis posterior insertion side of base of proximal big toe; supports medial longitudinal
phalanx of big toe; lateral arch
tendon into lateral side of
base of proximal phalanx of
big toe
Adductor Oblique head bases of Lateral side of base of Deep branch lateral Flexes metatarsophalangeal joint of
hallucis second, third, and fourth proximal phalanx of big toe plantar nerve big toe; holds together metatarsal
metatarsal bones; bones
transverse head from
plantar ligaments
Flexor digiti Base of fifth metatarsal Lateral side of base of Lateral plantar nerve Flexes metatarsophalangeal joint of
minimi brevis bone proximal phalanx of little little toe
toe
Fourth Layer

Interossei
Dorsal (4) Adjacent sides of Bases of proximal Lateral plantar nerve Abduction of toes; flexes
metatarsal bones phalanges first: medial side metatarsophalangeal joints and
of second toe; remainder: extends interphalangeal joints
lateral sides of second,
third, and fourth toes also
dorsal extensor expansion
Plantar (3) Inferior surfaces of third, Medial side of bases of Lateral plantar nerve Adduction of toes; flexes
fourth, and fifth metatarsal proximal phalanges of metatarsophalangeal joints and
bones lateral three toes extends interphalangeal joints
Peroneus
longus tendon
Tibialis
posterior
tendon
 13
Muscle of the Dorsum of the Foot

Muscle Origin Insertion Nerve Supply Action

Extensor Anterior part of upper By four tendons into the Deep peroneal nerve Extends toes
digitorum surface of the calcaneum proximal phalanx of big toe
brevis and from the inferior and long extensor tendons
extensor retinaculum to second, third, and fourth
toes

Branches of the Sacral Plexus and Their Distribution

Branches Distribution
Superior gluteal nerve Gluteus medius, gluteus minimus, and tensor fasciae latae muscles
Inferior gluteal nerve Gluteus maximus muscle
Nerve to piriformis Piriformis muscle
Nerve to obturator internus Obturator internus and superior gemellus muscles
Nerve to quadratus femoris Quadratus femoris and inferior gemellus muscles
Perforating cutaneous nerve Skin over medial aspect of buttock
Posterior cutaneous nerve of thigh Skin over posterior surface of thigh and popliteal fossa, also over lower part
of buttock, scrotum, or labium majus
Sciatic nerve (L4, 5; S1, 2, 3) Tibial portion Hamstring muscles (semitendinosus, biceps femoris [long head], adductor
magnus [hamstring part]), gastrocnemius, soleus, plantaris, popliteus, tibialis
posterior, flexor digitorum longus, flexor hallucis longus, and via medial and
lateral plantar branches to muscles of sole of foot; sural branch supplies skin
on lateral side of leg and foot
Common peroneal portion Biceps femoris muscle (short head) and via deep peroneal branch: tibialis
anterior, extensor hallucis longus, extensor digitorum longus, peroneus
tertius, and extensor digitorum brevis muscles; skin over cleft between first
and second toes. The superficial peroneal branch supplies the peroneus
longus and brevis muscles and skin over lower third of anterior surface of
leg and dorsum of foot
Pudendal nerve Muscles of perineum including the external anal sphincter, mucous
membrane of lower half of anal canal, perianal skin, skin of penis, scrotum,
clitoris, and labia majora and minora

Branches of the Lumbar Plexus and Their Distribution

Branches Distribution
Iliohypogastric nerve External oblique, internal oblique, transversus abdominis muscles of anterior
abdominal wall; skin over lower anterior abdominal wall and buttock
Ilioinguinal nerve External oblique, internal oblique, transversus abdominis muscles of anterior
abdominal wall; skin of upper medial aspect of thigh; root of penis and
scrotum in the male; mons pubis and labia majora in the female
Lateral cutaneous nerve of the thigh Skin of anterior and lateral surfaces of the thigh
Genitofemoral nerve (L1, 2) Cremaster muscle in scrotum in male; skin over anterior surface of thigh;
nervous pathway for cremasteric reflex
Femoral nerve (L2, 3, 4) Iliacus, pectineus, sartorius, quadriceps femoris muscles, and intermediate
cutaneous branches to the skin of the anterior surface of the thigh and by
saphenous branch to the skin of the medial side of the leg and foot; articular
branches to hip and knee joints
Obturator nerve (L2, 3, 4) Gracilis, adductor brevis, adductor longus, obturator externus, pectineus,
adductor magnus (adductor portion), and skin on medial surface of thigh;
articular branches to hip and knee joints
Segmental branches Quadratus lumborum and psoas muscles
 14
Back

Muscles Connecting the Upper limb to the Vertebral Column/ Superficial (Appendicular) Group of Back Muscles
*Trapezius
*Latissimus Dorsi
*Levator Scapulae
*Rhomboid Major
*Rhomboid Minor

Intermediate (Respiratory) Group of Back Muscles

Muscle Origin Insertion Innervation Action
Serratus Posterior Lower portion of Upper border of Anterior rami of Elevates ribs 2 to 5
Superior ligamentum nuchae, ribs 2 to 5 just upper thoracic
spinous process of lateral to their nerves (T2 to T5)
C7 to T3 and angles
supraspinous
ligaments
Serratus Posterior Spinous process of Lower border of Anterior rami of Depresses ribs 9 to
Inferior T11 to L3 and ribs 9 to 12 just lower thoracic 12 and may prevent
supraspinous lateral to their nerves (T9 to T12) lower ribs from
ligaments angles being elevated when
the diaphragm
contracts

Deep Group of Back Muscles

SpinoTransversales Muscles
Muscle Origin Insertion Innervation Action
Splenius Capitis Lower half of Mastoid process, Posterior rami Together- draw
ligamentum nuchae, skull below lateral middle cervical head backwards
spinous processes of 1/3 of superior nerves extending neck;
C7 to T4 nuchal line individually- draw
and rotate head to
one side (turn face
to same side)
Splenius Cervicis Spinous processes Transverse Posterior rami Together- extend
of T3 to T6 processes of C1 to middle cervical neck; individually-
C3 nerves draw and rotate
head to one side
(turn face to same
side)

Erector Spinae Group of Back Muscles

Muscle
Iliocostalis Lumborum
Iliocostalis Thoracis
Iliocostalis Cervicis
Longissimus Thoracis
Longissimus Cervicis
Longissimus Capitis
Spinalis Thoracis
Spinalis Cervicis
Spinalis Capitis
Origin
Sacrum, spinous process of lumbar
and lower two thoracic vertebrae
and their supraspinous ligaments
and the iliac crest
Angles of the lower 6 ribs
Angles of ribs 3 to 6
Blends with iliocostalis in lumbar
region and is attached to transverse
processes of lumbar vertebrae
Transverse processes of upper 4 or
5 thoracic vertebrae
Transverse processes of upper 4 or
5 thoracic vertebrae and articular
processes of lower three or four
cervical vertebrae
Spinous processes of T10 or T11 to
L2
Lower part of ligamentum nuchae
and spinous processes of C7
(sometimes T1 to T2)
Usually blends with semispinalis
capitis
Insertion
Angles of the lower 6 or 7 ribs
Angles of the upper 6 ribs and the
transverse process of C7
Transverse processes of C4 to C6
Transverse processes of all thoracic
vertebrae and just lateral to the
tubercles of the lower 9 or 10 ribs
Transverse processes of C2 to C6
Posterior margin of the mastoid
process
Spinous processes of T1 to T8
(varies)
Spinous process of C2 (axis)
With semispinalis capitis
Transversospinales Group of Back Muscles
Muscle
Semispinalis Thoracis

Semispinalis Cervicis
Origin
Transverse processes of T2 to T10

Transverse processes of upper 5 or

6 thoracic vertebrae
Semispinalis Capitis Transverse processes of T1 to T6
(or T7) and C7 and articular
processes of C4 to C6
Multifidus Sacrum, origin of erector spinae,
PSIS, mammillary processes of
lumbar vertebrae, transverse
processes of thoracic vertebrae and
articular processes of lower four
cervical vertebrae
Rotatores Lumborum Mammillary processes of lumbar
vertebrae
Rotatores Thoracis Transverse processes of thoracic
vertebrae
Rotatores Cervicis Articular processes of cervical
vertebrae
Insertion
Spinous processes of upper 4
thoracic and lower 2 cervical
vertebrae
Spinous processes of C2 (axis) to
C5
15
Medial area between the superior
and inferior nuchal lines of occipital
bone
Base of spinous processes of all
vertebrae from L5 to C2
Spinous processes of ;umbar
vertebrae
Spinous processes of thoracic
vertebrae
Spinous processes of cervical
vertebrae

Segmental Back Muscles

Muscle Origin Insertion Action
Levatores Costarum Short paired muscles The rib below vertebra of Contraction elevates rib
arising from transverse origin near tubercle
processes of C7 to T11
Interspinales Short paired muscles
attached to the spinous
process of contiguous
vertebrae, one on each
side of the interspinous
ligament
Intertransversarii Small muscles between
the transverse processes
of contiguous vertebrae

Suboccipital Gorup of Back Muscles

Muscle Origin Insertion Innervation Function
Rectus Capitis Spinous process of Lateral portion of Posterior ramus of Extension of head;
Posterior Major axis (C2) occipital bone below C1 rotation of face to
inferior nuchal line same side as muscle
Rectus Capitis Posterior tubercle Medial portion of Posterior ramus of Extension of head
Posterior Minor of atlas (C1) occipital bone below C1
inferior nuchal line
Obliquus Capitis Transverse process Occipital bone Posterior ramus of Extension of head
Superior of atlas (C1) between superior C1 and bends it to same
and inferior nuchal side
lines
Obliquus Capitis Spinous process of Transverse process Posterior ramus of Rotation of face to
Inferior axis (C2) of atlas (C1) C1 same side
 16
Thorax

Muscles Connecting the Upper Limb to the Thoracic Wall/ Muscles of the Pectoral Region (except Serratus Anterior)
*Pectoralis Major
*Subclavius
*Pectoralis Minor

Muscles of the Thorax/ Thoracic Wall

Muscle Origin Insertion Innervation Function
External Intercostal Inferior margin of Superior surface f Intercostal nerves; Most active during
rib above rib below T1-T11 inspiration; supports
intercostals space;
moves ribs
superiorly
Internal Intercostal Lateral edge of Superior surface of Intercostal nerves; Most active during
costal groove of rib rib below deep to T1-T11 expiration; supports
above the attachment of intercostals space;
the related external moves ribs inferiorly
intercostal
Innermost Medial edge of Internal aspect of Intercostal nerves; Acts with internal
Intercostal costal groove of rib superior surface of T1-T11 intercostals muscles
above rib below
Subcostales Internal surface Internal surface of Related intercostal May depress ribs
(near angle) of 2nd to 3rd rib below nerves
lower ribs
Transversus Lower margins and Inferior aspect of Related intercostals Depresses costal
Thoracis internal surfaces of deep surface of nerves cartilages
cocostal cartilages body of sternum,
of 2nd to 6th ribs xiphoid process and
costal cartilages ribs
4-7
Diaphragm (most Xiphoid process; Central tendon Phrenic nerve Very important
important muscle of lower six costal muscle of
respiration) cartilages, first three inspiration;
lumbar vertebrae increases vertical
diameter of thorax
by pulling central
tendon downward;
assists in raising
lower ribs. Also
used in abdominal
straining and weight
lifting
Levatores Costarum Tip of transverse Rib below Posterior rami of Raises ribs and
(12) process of C7 and thoracic spinal therefore
T1-11 vertebrae nerves inspiratory muscles
Serratus Posterior
Superior (see Intermediate (Respiratory) Group of Back Muscles)
Serratus Posterior
Inferior