Semispinalis insertion occurs on which structure?

Semispinalis insertion occurs on which structure?

• A. Spinous processes of superior vertebrae
• B. Transverse processes of inferior vertebrae
• C. Ribs
• D. Zygomatic arch

Answer: (A)

Semispinalis muscles insert on spinous processes of vertebrae that are superior to where they originate. The fibers run from a transverse process upward to a more posterior spinous process several levels away, so in the thoracic and cervical regions they typically attach to the spinous processes of vertebrae above. Among the options, the spinous processes of superior vertebrae match this pattern. (Note: the semispinalis capitis portion actually inserts on the occipital bone, which isn’t listed here.)

Semispinalis muscles insert on spinous processes of vertebrae that are superior to where they originate. The fibers run from a transverse process upward to a more posterior spinous process several levels away, so in the thoracic and cervical regions they typically attach to the spinous processes of vertebrae above. Among the options, the spinous processes of superior vertebrae match this pattern. (Note: the semispinalis capitis portion actually inserts on the occipital bone, which isn’t listed here.)