ORIGIN

Fleshy slips from the lateral aspect of the superior eight ribs and anterior intercostal membranes from the midclavicular line, the lower four slips interdigitating with external abdominal oblique

 

INSERTION

Volar surface of the axillary border of the scapula, spanning the superior and inferior angles

 

ACTION

Protracts and stabilizes scapula, assists in upward rotation

 

INNERVATION

Long thoracic nerve (C5, 6, 7)

 

PRIMARY JOINT

Shoulder girdle

 

KEY STRENGTH TRAINING EXERCISES

Ab extensions

Hanging serratus crunch

Push ups

 

NEW STRENGTH TRAINING EXERCISES

Barbell pullovers

Medicine ball power drops

 

COMMON INJURIES

Strain/stiffness

Winged scapula

Injury to long thoracic nerve