Rotatores muscles

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellnesspedia

Rotatores muscles are a group of small muscles found in the human body, specifically in the spinal column. They are part of the deep layer of the intrinsic muscles of the back. The term "rotatores" comes from the Latin word "rotare", which means "to rotate". This is due to the role these muscles play in the rotation of the spine.

Etymology[edit | edit source]

The term "rotatores" is derived from the Latin word "rotare", which translates to "to rotate". This name is fitting as these muscles are involved in the rotation of the vertebrae in the spine.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The rotatores muscles are located in the deep layer of the intrinsic muscles of the back. They are the most deeply seated muscles in this layer. Each muscle spans one to two vertebrae, running obliquely from the transverse process of a vertebra to the spinous process of the vertebra above or two vertebrae above.

There are two types of rotatores muscles: rotatores longi and rotatores brevis. The rotatores longi span two vertebrae, while the rotatores brevis span one vertebra.

Function[edit | edit source]

The primary function of the rotatores muscles is to aid in the rotation of the spine. They also assist in the extension of the vertebral column. Additionally, these muscles play a role in proprioception, the body's ability to sense its location, movements, and actions.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

Dysfunction or injury to the rotatores muscles can lead to back pain and limited mobility. They may be affected by conditions such as muscle strain, herniated disc, or spinal stenosis. Treatment for issues related to the rotatores muscles may include physical therapy, medication, or in severe cases, surgery.

Related Terms[edit | edit source]

Rotatores muscles Resources
Doctor showing form.jpg
Wiki.png

Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD


Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.

Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.


Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD