![spinous processes spinous processes](https://image.slideserve.com/176541/typical-cervical-vertebra-c3-c7-l.jpg)
In this manner, origins are inferior to their insertions. The origins and insertions are described as though the fibers run caudocranially. Moreover, these muscles help with the movements of the vertebral column and maintain posture.Īs the muscles of the back develop, they extend caudally. These muscles stabilize the vertebral column and also have a role in proprioception and balance. The three deep muscles of the back include the semispinalis, multifidus, and rotatores. They are short muscles associated with the spinous and transverse processes of the vertebrae. The deep back muscles are posterior to the erector spinae. These deep muscles are enclosed by fascia. The intrinsic/deep muscles are well developed and extend from the skull base to the sacrum. They play a role in the movement of the thoracic cage and flexion of the upper vertebral column and head. Their attachments subdivide these muscles, and they all have a common tendinous origin. They include the longissimus, iliocostalis, and spinalis muscles. The intermediate muscles are the erector spinae. They help with movements of the shoulder and neck. The two muscles in the superficial layer include the splenius cervicis and splenius capitis. Only the intrinsic muscles are considered true back muscles. The final group is the intermediate muscles, which help with the movement of the thoracic cage. The second group is the superficial muscles, which help with shoulder and neck movements. The intrinsic or deep muscles are those muscles that fuse with the vertebral column.
![spinous processes spinous processes](https://i.pinimg.com/474x/d3/49/05/d3490502076e24cba8e7535035a30095.jpg)
The muscles of the back categorize into three groups.