Serratus Posterior Superior Muscle
Origin: Lower part of the nuchal ligament and the spinous processes of the vertebrae C7 through T3 and their corresponding supraspinous ligaments
Insertion: Superior borders and external surfaces of the second to fifth ribs, lateral to their angles
Actions: Elevation of the ribs during respiration
Innervation: Ventral rami of T2, T3, T4, T5
Blood Supply: Superior intercostal artery via the dorsal rami of the upper two posterior intercostal arteries
Primary Actions of the Serratus Posterior Superior
1. Forced inspiration
Agonists:
- Levatores costarum brevis
- Levatores costarum brevis longus
Antagonists:
- Serratus posterior inferior
- Transversus abdominis
Anterior scalene and middle scalene assist with forced inspiration in some instances of labored breathing, such as during heavy exertion.
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Muscle Pain Information: The serratus posterior superior muscle contributes to pain in the chest, shoulder, arm, and hand.
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