The ('''multifidus spinae''' : ''pl. multifidi'' ) '''muscle''' consists of a number of fleshy and tendinous
Fasciculi , which fill up the groove on either side of the
Spinous Processes of the
Vertebrae , from the
Sacrum to the
Axis .
Deep in the spine, it spans three joint segments, and works to stabilize the joints at each segmental level.
The stiffness and stability makes each
Vertebra work more effectively, and reduces the degeneration of the joint structures.
These fasciculi arise:
Each fasciculus, passing obliquely upward and medialward, is inserted into the whole length of the
Spinous Process of one of the vertebræ above.
These fasciculi vary in length: the most superficial, the longest, pass from one vertebra to the third or fourth above; those next in order run from one vertebra to the second or third above; while the deepest connect two contiguous vertebrae.
