overview

Origin

Superolateral surfaces of the first to eighth or ninth ribs

Insertion

Superior angle, medial border, and inferior angle of the scapula

Action

Protraction of the scapula

Upward rotation of the scapula

Can assist with respiration by lifting the ribs

Nerve

Long thoracic nerve (C5, C6, C7)

Artery

Lateral thoracic artery

Superior thoracic artery

Thoracodorsal artery