Author: Dr Peter de Souza
Last modified: 23 November 2023

The levator scapulae muscle is one of the superficial muscles of the back. The superficial group of back muscles attach the axial skeleton to the upper part of the appendicular skeleton, and may also be referred to as the appendicular group of back muscles.

The superficial group of back muscles includes the following muscles:

  • Trapezius
  • Latissimus dorsi
  • Rhomboid major
  • Rhomboid minor

Origin

  • Transverse processes of C1-4

Insertion

  • Upper portion medial border of scapula

Action

  • Elevates scapula

Innervation

  • Dorsal scapular nerve: C4,C5

Blood Supply

Dorsal scapula artery