Serratus anterior

Serratus anterior is a muscle that originates on the surface of the 1st to 8th ribs at the side of the chest and inserts along the entire anterior length of the medial border of the scapula. The serratus anterior acts to pull the scapula forward around the thorax. The muscle is named from Latin: serrare = to saw, referring to the shape, anterior = on the front side of the body.

Anatomy

The serratus anterior is divided into three named parts: the superior part, the intermediate part, and the inferior part. The superior part originates from the 1st to 2nd ribs, the intermediate part originates from the 2nd to 3rd ribs, and the inferior part originates from the 4th to 9th ribs.

Function

The serratus anterior is occasionally considered part of the extrinsic shoulder muscles due to its role in scapulothoracic movement. It is responsible for the protraction of the scapula, meaning it pulls the scapula forward and around the rib cage that leads to the arm moving anteriorly.

Clinical significance

Damage to the long thoracic nerve can lead to a condition known as winged scapula. It presents as an abnormal protrusion of the scapula. This can affect the ability to lift, pull, and push heavy objects.

See also

• Muscles of the human body
• Scapula
• Winged scapula

Serratus anterior Resources
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