All about the lats 125
How many muscles are in the lats?
The latissimus dorsi, commonly known as the “lats,” is a large, flat muscle that covers much of the back. Despite being referred to in the singular, the lats are technically a single muscle that spans both sides of the back. The muscle is divided into distinct sections based on the regions of attachment, but it functions as one cohesive unit.
The latissimus dorsi originates from the lower thoracic vertebrae, lumbar vertebrae, sacrum, iliac crest, and lower ribs. It then inserts into the humerus, the bone of the upper arm. The primary function of the lats is to enable movements of the shoulder joint, particularly adduction (bringing the arm toward the body), extension (moving the arm backward), and internal rotation (rotating the arm inward). These actions are essential in activities like pulling, rowing, and swimming.
In addition to these primary functions, the lats also assist in stabilizing the spine and pelvis, contributing to posture and core strength. Due to their extensive range of motion and involvement in many upper body movements, the lats are crucial for overall upper body strength and athletic performance.
The latissimus dorsi is a single, large muscle, not a group of smaller muscles. However, it has several distinct points of origin, which might be referred to when discussing the muscle’s anatomy in more detail. Here’s how the latissimus dorsi is structured:
Key Points of Origin:
- Thoracic Vertebrae (T7-T12) – The latissimus dorsi originates from the spinous processes of the lower thoracic vertebrae.
- Lumbar Vertebrae – It also arises from the thoracolumbar fascia, which is connected to the lumbar vertebrae.
- Sacrum – The muscle extends from the sacrum, the triangular bone at the base of the spine.
- Iliac Crest – It originates from the posterior part of the iliac crest, the top of the pelvis.
- Lower Ribs (Ribs 9-12) – The muscle has attachments to the lower ribs.
- Inferior Angle of the Scapula – Occasionally, the latissimus dorsi has fibers that originate from the inferior angle of the scapula.
Insertion:
- Humerus – The latissimus dorsi inserts into the intertubercular groove of the humerus, the bone of the upper arm.
Despite these multiple points of origin, the latissimus dorsi functions as a single muscle responsible for various movements of the shoulder and upper arm.
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