Muscles — table

Origin, insertion, action, innervation and blood supply of every muscle. 105 entries.

Head — facial expression 11

Muscle	Origin	Insertion	Action	Innervation	Blood supply
Occipitofrontalis	Frontal belly: epicranial aponeurosis. Occipital belly: lateral two-thirds of the superior nuchal line of the occipital bone and the mastoid part of the temporal bone.	Frontal belly: skin and superficial fascia of the eyebrows and forehead. Occipital belly: epicranial aponeurosis.	Elevates the eyebrows and wrinkles the forehead (frontal belly); retracts the scalp (occipital belly).	Facial nerve (CN VII): temporal branch (frontal belly) and posterior auricular nerve (occipital belly).	Supraorbital and supratrochlear arteries (ophthalmic artery), superficial temporal artery, and occipital and posterior auricular arteries (external carotid).
Corrugator supercilii	Medial end of the superciliary arch of the frontal bone.	Deep surface of the skin above the middle of the supraorbital margin.	Pulls the eyebrows medially and down, producing vertical glabellar wrinkles.	Facial nerve (CN VII), temporal branch.	Supraorbital and supratrochlear arteries; superficial temporal artery.
Orbicularis oculi	Nasal part of the frontal bone, frontal process of the maxilla, medial palpebral ligament and lacrimal bone (posterior lacrimal crest).	Skin around the orbital margin, the lateral palpebral raphe and the superior and inferior tarsal plates.	Closes the eyelids. The palpebral part closes them gently, the orbital part closes them tightly, and the lacrimal part assists tear drainage.	Facial nerve (CN VII), temporal and zygomatic branches.	Facial artery (angular branch), superficial temporal artery, and ophthalmic artery branches (supraorbital, lacrimal, palpebral).
Nasalis	Maxilla, superior to the incisor and canine teeth, lateral to the nasal notch.	Nasal aponeurosis over the bridge of the nose (transverse part) and the alar cartilage (alar part).	Compresses (transverse part) or dilates (alar part) the anterior nasal aperture.	Facial nerve (CN VII), buccal (and zygomatic) branches.	Facial artery (superior labial and lateral nasal branches); dorsal nasal branch of the ophthalmic artery.
Levator labii superioris	Infraorbital margin of the maxilla, above the infraorbital foramen.	Skin and muscle of the upper lip (blending with orbicularis oris).	Raises and everts the upper lip, exposing the maxillary teeth (sadness, disdain).	Facial nerve (CN VII), zygomatic and buccal branches.	Facial artery (superior labial branch) and infraorbital artery.
Zygomaticus major	Lateral surface of the zygomatic bone, in front of the zygomaticotemporal suture.	Modiolus at the angle of the mouth (skin and orbicularis oris).	Elevates and draws back the angle of the mouth.	Facial nerve (CN VII), zygomatic and buccal branches.	Superior labial branch of the facial artery; transverse facial artery.
Orbicularis oris	Maxilla and mandible near the midline (incisive slips), the deep surface of the skin, and the modiolus (fibres from buccinator and other perioral muscles).	Mucous membrane and skin of the lips.	Closes the oral fissure, compresses the lips against the teeth, and purses and protrudes the lips.	Facial nerve (CN VII), buccal and marginal mandibular branches.	Superior and inferior labial arteries (facial artery); mental and infraorbital arteries.
Buccinator	Alveolar processes of the maxilla and mandible opposite the molar teeth, and the pterygomandibular raphe.	Modiolus at the angle of the mouth, blending with orbicularis oris.	Compresses the cheek against the molars, keeping food on the occlusal surfaces, and expels air.	Facial nerve (CN VII), buccal branch. Not supplied by the buccal nerve of V3, which is sensory.	Facial artery and buccal artery (from the maxillary artery).
Depressor anguli oris	Oblique line of the mandible.	Modiolus at the angle of the mouth.	Draws the angle of the mouth inferolaterally.	Facial nerve (CN VII), marginal mandibular (and buccal) branches.	Inferior labial branch of the facial artery; mental artery.
Mentalis	Incisive fossa of the mandible.	Skin of the chin.	Raises the chin skin and protrudes the lower lip.	Facial nerve (CN VII), marginal mandibular branch.	Inferior labial artery (facial) and mental artery (inferior alveolar).
Platysma	Superficial fascia over the superior parts of pectoralis major and deltoid.	Inferior border of the mandible, the skin of the lower face and the modiolus.	Draws the angles of the mouth and the lower lip down; tenses the skin of the neck (grimacing, "strained" expression).	Facial nerve (CN VII), cervical branch.	Submental branch of the facial artery and the suprascapular artery (superficial cervical branches).

Head — mastication 4

Muscle	Origin	Insertion	Action	Innervation	Blood supply
Temporalis	Floor of the temporal fossa and the deep surface of the temporal fascia.	Tip and medial surface of the coronoid process and the anterior border of the ramus of the mandible.	Elevates the mandible (closes the jaw); posterior fibres retract it.	Deep temporal nerves (anterior division of the mandibular nerve, CN V3).	Anterior and posterior deep temporal arteries (maxillary artery); middle temporal artery (superficial temporal artery).
Masseter	Superficial part: zygomatic process of the maxilla and the anterior two-thirds of the inferior border of the zygomatic arch. Deep part: posterior third and medial surface of the zygomatic arch.	Angle and lateral surface of the ramus of the mandible, up to the coronoid process.	Elevates the mandible (closes the jaw). Superficial part assists protrusion; deep part assists retraction.	Masseteric nerve (anterior division of the mandibular nerve, CN V3).	Masseteric artery (maxillary artery), transverse facial artery (superficial temporal artery) and the facial artery.
Medial pterygoid	Deep head: medial surface of the lateral pterygoid plate and the pyramidal process of the palatine bone. Superficial head: maxillary tuberosity and pyramidal process.	Medial surface of the ramus and angle of the mandible, below the mandibular foramen.	Elevates and protrudes the mandible. Unilateral contraction moves the chin to the opposite side.	Nerve to medial pterygoid (main trunk of the mandibular nerve, CN V3).	Pterygoid branches of the maxillary artery.
Lateral pterygoid	Superior head: infratemporal surface and infratemporal crest of the greater wing of the sphenoid. Inferior head: lateral surface of the lateral pterygoid plate.	Pterygoid fovea on the neck of the mandible; capsule and articular disc of the TMJ.	Bilaterally: protrudes the mandible and depresses the chin (opening). Unilaterally: moves the chin to the opposite side.	Nerve to lateral pterygoid (anterior division of the mandibular nerve, CN V3).	Pterygoid branches of the maxillary artery (the maxillary artery passes superficial or deep to the muscle).

Neck 4

Muscle	Origin	Insertion	Action	Innervation	Blood supply
Sternocleidomastoid	Sternal head: anterior surface of the manubrium of the sternum. Clavicular head: superior surface of the medial third of the clavicle.	Lateral surface of the mastoid process and the lateral half of the superior nuchal line.	Unilaterally: lateral flexion of the neck to the same side and rotation of the face to the opposite side.…	Spinal accessory nerve (CN XI) for motor supply; branches of C2–C3 (cervical plexus), mainly proprioceptive.	Sternocleidomastoid branches of the occipital and superior thyroid arteries; suprascapular artery (inferiorly).
Digastric	Anterior belly: digastric fossa of the mandible. Posterior belly: mastoid notch of the temporal bone.	Intermediate tendon attached to the body and greater horn of the hyoid.	Depresses the mandible against resistance; raises and steadies the hyoid.	Anterior belly: nerve to mylohyoid (inferior alveolar branch of CN V3). Posterior belly: facial nerve (CN VII).	Anterior belly: submental artery (facial). Posterior belly: posterior auricular and occipital arteries.
Mylohyoid	Mylohyoid line of the mandible.	Median raphe and the body of the hyoid bone.	Raises the floor of the mouth, the tongue and the hyoid; depresses the mandible.	Nerve to mylohyoid (branch of the inferior alveolar nerve, CN V3).	Submental artery (facial artery) and the mylohyoid branch of the inferior alveolar artery.
Omohyoid	Superior border of the scapula, near the suprascapular notch.	Inferior border of the body of the hyoid bone.	Depresses, retracts and stabilises the hyoid.	Ansa cervicalis (cervical plexus).	Superior thyroid and lingual arteries (superior belly); transverse cervical and suprascapular arteries (inferior belly).

Back — deep (intrinsic) 2

Muscle	Origin	Insertion	Action	Innervation	Blood supply
Splenius capitis	Inferior half of the nuchal ligament and the spinous processes of C7–T3 (T4).	Mastoid process and the lateral third of the superior nuchal line.	Bilaterally: extends the head and neck. Unilaterally: laterally flexes the neck and rotates the face to the same side.	Dorsal rami of the middle cervical spinal nerves.	Muscular branches of the occipital artery; transverse cervical artery.
Multifidus	Posterior sacrum, posterior superior iliac spine, erector spinae aponeurosis, mammillary processes of the lumbar vertebrae, transverse processes of T1–T12 and articular processes of C4–C7.	Spinous processes of vertebrae 2–4 segments above the origin (up to C2).	Stabilises the vertebral segments; extends the spine; rotates it to the opposite side (unilaterally).	Medial branches of the dorsal rami of the spinal nerves.	Dorsal branches of the posterior intercostal, lumbar and lateral sacral arteries.

Back — superficial (axio-appendicular) 5

Muscle	Origin	Insertion	Action	Innervation	Blood supply
Trapezius	Medial third of the superior nuchal line, external occipital protuberance, nuchal ligament, and spinous processes and supraspinous ligaments of C7–T12.	Lateral third of the clavicle, acromion and spine of the scapula.	Upper fibres elevate the scapula; middle fibres retract it; lower fibres depress it. Upper and lower fibres together upwardly rotate the scapula. Bilaterally, it extends the neck.	Spinal accessory nerve (CN XI) for motor supply; C3–C4 anterior rami (cervical plexus), mainly proprioceptive.	Superficial branch of the transverse cervical artery (superficial cervical artery); dorsal scapular artery; occipital artery; dorsal branches of the posterior intercostal arteries.
Latissimus dorsi	Spinous processes of T7–T12, thoracolumbar fascia, posterior third of the iliac crest, inferior 3–4 ribs and (often) the inferior angle of the scapula.	Floor of the intertubercular sulcus (bicipital groove) of the humerus.	Extension, adduction and medial rotation of the humerus at the shoulder; elevates the trunk toward the arms when the arms are fixed.	Thoracodorsal nerve (posterior cord of the brachial plexus).	Thoracodorsal artery (from the subscapular artery); dorsal perforating branches of the 9th–11th posterior intercostal, subcostal and lumbar arteries.
Levator scapulae	Posterior tubercles of the transverse processes of C1–C4.	Superior angle and medial border of the scapula, above the root of the spine.	Elevates the scapula and rotates it downward; laterally flexes the neck to the same side.	Dorsal scapular nerve (C5) and direct branches of the C3–C4 cervical spinal nerves.	Dorsal scapular artery; transverse cervical and ascending cervical arteries.
Rhomboid major	Spinous processes of T2–T5 and the supraspinous ligaments.	Medial border of the scapula, from the level of the spine to the inferior angle.	Retracts and downwardly rotates the scapula; holds it against the thoracic wall.	Dorsal scapular nerve (from the C5 root of the brachial plexus).	Dorsal scapular artery (deep branch of the transverse cervical artery); dorsal branches of the upper posterior intercostal arteries.
Rhomboid minor	Nuchal ligament and the spinous processes of C7–T1.	Medial border of the scapula at the root of the spine.	Retracts and downwardly rotates the scapula; fixes it to the thoracic wall.	Dorsal scapular nerve.	Dorsal scapular artery.

Pectoral region & thoracic wall 4

Muscle	Origin	Insertion	Action	Innervation	Blood supply
Pectoralis major	Clavicular head: anterior surface of the medial half of the clavicle. Sternocostal head: anterior surface of the sternum, costal cartilages 1–6 and the aponeurosis of the external oblique.	Lateral lip of the intertubercular sulcus (crest of the greater tubercle) of the humerus.	Adduction and medial rotation of the humerus; flexion (clavicular head) and extension from flexion (sternocostal head).	Lateral pectoral nerve (lateral cord) and medial pectoral nerve (medial cord).	Pectoral branch of the thoraco-acromial trunk; perforating branches of the internal thoracic artery; lateral thoracic artery.
Pectoralis minor	Outer surfaces of ribs 3–5, near the costal cartilages.	Medial border and superior surface of the coracoid process of the scapula.	Depresses, protracts and downwardly rotates the scapula; raises ribs 3–5 in forced inspiration.	Medial pectoral nerve (and lateral pectoral nerve).	Pectoral branch of the thoraco-acromial trunk; lateral thoracic and superior thoracic arteries.
Subclavius	Junction of the 1st rib and its costal cartilage.	Inferior surface of the middle third of the clavicle (subclavian groove).	Anchors and depresses the clavicle.	Nerve to subclavius (from the upper trunk of the brachial plexus).	Clavicular branch of the thoraco-acromial trunk.
Serratus anterior	External surfaces of the lateral parts of ribs 1–8 (9).	Anterior (costal) surface of the medial border of the scapula, from the superior angle to the inferior angle.	Protracts the scapula and rotates it upward; holds it against the thoracic wall; can elevate the ribs when the scapula is fixed.	Long thoracic nerve (from the roots of the brachial plexus).	Lateral thoracic artery, thoracodorsal artery and superior thoracic artery.

Abdominal wall 5

Muscle	Origin	Insertion	Action	Innervation	Blood supply
Rectus abdominis	Pubic crest and pubic symphysis.	Xiphoid process and the costal cartilages of ribs 5–7.	Flexes the trunk; compresses the abdominal viscera; tilts the pelvis posteriorly; assists forced expiration.	Thoraco-abdominal nerves (anterior rami of T7–T11) and the subcostal nerve (T12).	Superior epigastric artery (from the internal thoracic artery) and inferior epigastric artery (from the external iliac artery), which anastomose within the sheath; posterior intercostal branches laterally.
External oblique	External surfaces of ribs 5–12.	Linea alba, pubic tubercle and the anterior half of the iliac crest (via the aponeurosis and inguinal ligament).	Compresses the abdomen; flexes the trunk; laterally flexes it to the same side and rotates it to the opposite side.	Thoraco-abdominal nerves (anterior rami of T7–T11) and the subcostal nerve (T12).	Lower posterior intercostal and subcostal arteries; superior and inferior epigastric arteries; superficial and deep circumflex iliac arteries.
Internal oblique	Thoracolumbar fascia, anterior two-thirds of the iliac crest and the lateral half of the inguinal ligament.	Inferior borders of ribs 10–12, linea alba (via the aponeurosis) and the pubic crest and pecten pubis (via the conjoint tendon).	Compresses the abdomen; flexes the trunk; laterally flexes it and rotates it to the same side.	Thoraco-abdominal nerves (T7–T11), subcostal nerve (T12), iliohypogastric and ilioinguinal nerves (L1).	Lower posterior intercostal and subcostal arteries; superior and inferior epigastric arteries; deep circumflex iliac artery.
Transversus abdominis	Internal surfaces of costal cartilages 7–12, thoracolumbar fascia, anterior two-thirds of the iliac crest and the lateral third of the inguinal ligament.	Linea alba (via the aponeurosis), pubic crest and pecten pubis (via the conjoint tendon).	Compresses and supports the abdominal viscera; stabilises the trunk.	Thoraco-abdominal nerves (T7–T11), subcostal nerve (T12), iliohypogastric and ilioinguinal nerves (L1).	Lower posterior intercostal and subcostal arteries; deep circumflex iliac and inferior epigastric arteries.
Quadratus lumborum	Iliolumbar ligament and the internal lip of the iliac crest.	Medial half of the inferior border of the 12th rib and the tips of the transverse processes of L1–L4.	Lateral flexion of the trunk; elevation of the hip; fixes the 12th rib; extension of the lumbar spine (bilaterally).	Anterior rami of T12 (subcostal nerve) and L1–L4.	Lumbar arteries, subcostal artery, iliolumbar artery (lumbar branch) and median sacral artery.

Pelvic floor 1

Muscle	Origin	Insertion	Action	Innervation	Blood supply
Coccygeus	Ischial spine (and sacrospinous ligament).	Lateral margins of the inferior sacrum and the coccyx.	Supports the pelvic floor; pulls the coccyx forward.	Direct branches of the anterior rami of S4–S5.	Inferior gluteal and internal pudendal arteries.

Shoulder (scapulohumeral) 6

Muscle	Origin	Insertion	Action	Innervation	Blood supply
Deltoid	Lateral third of the clavicle, acromion and spine of the scapula.	Deltoid tuberosity of the humerus.	Abduction of the arm beyond the first 15°; anterior part flexes and medially rotates; posterior part extends and laterally rotates.	Axillary nerve (posterior cord of the brachial plexus).	Posterior circumflex humeral artery; deltoid branch of the thoraco-acromial trunk; anterior circumflex humeral artery.
Supraspinatus	Medial two-thirds of the supraspinous fossa of the scapula.	Superior facet of the greater tubercle of the humerus; glenohumeral joint capsule.	Initiates abduction of the arm; acts with the rotator cuff to stabilise the joint.	Suprascapular nerve (upper trunk of the brachial plexus).	Suprascapular artery (thyrocervical trunk).
Infraspinatus	Medial two-thirds of the infraspinous fossa and the infraspinous fascia.	Middle facet of the greater tubercle of the humerus.	Lateral rotation of the arm; holds the humeral head in the glenoid.	Suprascapular nerve.	Suprascapular and circumflex scapular arteries.
Teres minor	Upper two-thirds of the posterior surface of the lateral border of the scapula.	Inferior facet of the greater tubercle of the humerus.	Lateral rotation of the arm; stabilises the glenohumeral joint.	Axillary nerve (posterior cord).	Circumflex scapular artery and posterior circumflex humeral artery.
Subscapularis	Subscapular fossa (most of the anterior surface of the scapula).	Lesser tubercle of the humerus and the anterior joint capsule.	Medial rotation and adduction of the arm; holds the humeral head in the glenoid.	Upper and lower subscapular nerves (posterior cord).	Subscapular artery; suprascapular and lateral thoracic branches.
Teres major	Posterior surface of the inferior angle of the scapula.	Medial lip of the intertubercular sulcus of the humerus.	Adduction, medial rotation and extension of the humerus.	Lower subscapular nerve (posterior cord).	Thoracodorsal artery and circumflex scapular artery.

Arm — anterior compartment 3

Muscle	Origin	Insertion	Action	Innervation	Blood supply
Coracobrachialis	Tip of the coracoid process of the scapula.	Middle third of the medial surface of the humerus.	Flexion and adduction of the arm.	Musculocutaneous nerve (lateral cord), which pierces it.	Muscular branches of the brachial artery (and the anterior circumflex humeral artery).
Biceps brachii	Short head: tip of the coracoid process. Long head: supraglenoid tubercle of the scapula.	Radial tuberosity and, via the bicipital aponeurosis, the deep fascia of the medial forearm.	Supination of the forearm; flexion of the elbow (strongest in supination); weak flexion of the arm at the shoulder.	Musculocutaneous nerve (lateral cord).	Muscular branches of the brachial artery.
Brachialis	Distal half of the anterior surface of the humerus and the medial and lateral intermuscular septa.	Coronoid process and tuberosity of the ulna.	Flexion of the forearm at the elbow.	Musculocutaneous nerve; small lateral part supplied by the radial nerve.	Muscular branches of the brachial artery; radial recurrent artery.

Arm — posterior compartment 2

Muscle	Origin	Insertion	Action	Innervation	Blood supply
Triceps brachii	Long head: infraglenoid tubercle of the scapula. Lateral head: posterior humerus above the radial groove. Medial head: posterior humerus below the radial groove.	Proximal end of the olecranon of the ulna and the posterior capsule of the elbow.	Extension of the forearm at the elbow; long head also extends and adducts the arm at the shoulder.	Radial nerve (posterior cord).	Deep brachial artery (profunda brachii); posterior circumflex humeral artery (long head); superior ulnar collateral artery.
Anconeus	Posterior surface of the lateral epicondyle of the humerus.	Lateral surface of the olecranon and the upper posterior surface of the ulna.	Assists triceps in elbow extension; abducts the ulna during pronation; stabilises the elbow.	Radial nerve (branch to anconeus via the medial head of triceps).	Middle collateral artery (from the profunda brachii) and recurrent interosseous artery.

Forearm — anterior compartment 8

Muscle	Origin	Insertion	Action	Innervation	Blood supply
Pronator teres	Humeral head: medial epicondyle (common flexor origin) and the medial supracondylar ridge. Ulnar head: coronoid process of the ulna.	Middle of the lateral surface of the radius (pronator tuberosity).	Pronation of the forearm; flexion of the elbow.	Median nerve.	Anterior ulnar recurrent artery; radial and ulnar arteries.
Flexor carpi radialis	Medial epicondyle of the humerus (common flexor origin).	Base of the 2nd metacarpal (and 3rd).	Flexion and abduction (radial deviation) of the wrist.	Median nerve.	Radial and ulnar arteries.
Palmaris longus	Medial epicondyle of the humerus (common flexor origin).	Distal half of the flexor retinaculum and the apex of the palmar aponeurosis.	Flexion of the wrist; tensing of the palmar aponeurosis.	Median nerve.	Ulnar artery (anterior ulnar recurrent) and radial artery branches.
Flexor carpi ulnaris	Humeral head: medial epicondyle. Ulnar head: medial olecranon and posterior border of the ulna.	Pisiform, hook of the hamate (pisohamate ligament) and the base of the 5th metacarpal (pisometacarpal ligament).	Flexion and adduction of the wrist.	Ulnar nerve.	Ulnar artery and its posterior ulnar recurrent branch.
Flexor digitorum superficialis	Humero-ulnar head: medial epicondyle and coronoid process. Radial head: anterior oblique line of the radius.	Sides of the middle phalanges of digits 2–5.	Flexion of the PIP joints, then the MCP joints and the wrist.	Median nerve.	Ulnar and radial arteries.
Flexor digitorum profundus	Upper three-quarters of the anterior and medial surfaces of the ulna and the interosseous membrane.	Bases of the distal phalanges of digits 2–5.	Flexion of the DIP joints, then the PIP and MCP joints and the wrist.	Lateral half (digits 2–3): anterior interosseous nerve (median). Medial half (digits 4–5): ulnar nerve.	Anterior interosseous artery and ulnar artery (muscular branches).
Flexor pollicis longus	Anterior surface of the radius and the adjacent interosseous membrane.	Base of the distal phalanx of the thumb (palmar surface).	Flexion of the phalanges of the thumb.	Anterior interosseous nerve (median nerve).	Anterior interosseous artery.
Pronator quadratus	Distal quarter of the anterior surface of the ulna.	Distal quarter of the anterior surface of the radius.	Pronation of the forearm; stabilises the distal radio-ulnar joint.	Anterior interosseous nerve (median nerve).	Anterior interosseous artery.

Forearm — posterior compartment 11

Muscle	Origin	Insertion	Action	Innervation	Blood supply
Brachioradialis	Proximal two-thirds of the lateral supracondylar ridge of the humerus.	Lateral surface of the distal radius, just proximal to the styloid process.	Flexion of the elbow (strongest with the forearm mid-prone); semi-pronation or semi-supination to the neutral position.	Radial nerve (before its division).	Radial recurrent artery and radial artery; radial collateral artery.
Extensor carpi radialis longus	Distal third of the lateral supracondylar ridge of the humerus.	Dorsal surface of the base of the 2nd metacarpal.	Extension and abduction (radial deviation) of the wrist.	Radial nerve.	Radial artery and radial recurrent artery.
Extensor carpi radialis brevis	Lateral epicondyle of the humerus (common extensor origin).	Dorsal surface of the base of the 3rd metacarpal.	Extension and (weak) abduction of the wrist.	Deep branch of the radial nerve.	Radial artery and radial recurrent artery.
Extensor digitorum	Lateral epicondyle of the humerus (common extensor origin).	Extensor expansions of digits 2–5 (central slip → middle phalanx; lateral bands → distal phalanx).	Extension of the MCP joints (and, with the intrinsic muscles, the IP joints) of the medial four digits; assists wrist extension.	Posterior interosseous nerve (deep branch of the radial nerve).	Posterior interosseous artery.
Extensor digiti minimi	Lateral epicondyle of the humerus (common extensor origin).	Extensor expansion of the 5th digit.	Extension of the little finger.	Posterior interosseous nerve.	Posterior interosseous artery.
Extensor carpi ulnaris	Lateral epicondyle of the humerus and the posterior border of the ulna.	Base of the 5th metacarpal (medial side).	Extension and adduction of the wrist.	Posterior interosseous nerve.	Ulnar artery (posterior ulnar recurrent) and posterior interosseous artery.
Supinator	Lateral epicondyle of the humerus, radial collateral and annular ligaments, supinator crest and fossa of the ulna.	Lateral, posterior and anterior surfaces of the proximal third of the radius.	Supination of the forearm.	Deep branch of the radial nerve.	Radial recurrent artery and recurrent interosseous artery.
Abductor pollicis longus	Posterior surfaces of the ulna, radius and interosseous membrane.	Lateral base of the 1st metacarpal.	Abduction (and extension) of the thumb at the carpometacarpal joint.	Posterior interosseous nerve.	Posterior interosseous artery.
Extensor pollicis brevis	Posterior surface of the radius and the interosseous membrane.	Dorsal base of the proximal phalanx of the thumb.	Extension of the thumb at the metacarpophalangeal joint.	Posterior interosseous nerve.	Posterior interosseous artery.
Extensor pollicis longus	Posterior surface of the middle third of the ulna and the interosseous membrane.	Dorsal base of the distal phalanx of the thumb.	Extension of the distal phalanx of the thumb (and the MCP and CMC joints).	Posterior interosseous nerve.	Posterior interosseous artery.
Extensor indicis	Posterior surface of the distal ulna and the interosseous membrane.	Extensor expansion of the index finger.	Extension of the index finger (pointing); assists wrist extension.	Posterior interosseous nerve.	Posterior interosseous artery (and the anterior interosseous artery).

Hand — intrinsic muscles 1

Muscle	Origin	Insertion	Action	Innervation	Blood supply
Adductor pollicis	Oblique head: capitate and the bases of the 2nd and 3rd metacarpals. Transverse head: anterior surface of the shaft of the 3rd metacarpal.	Medial side of the base of the proximal phalanx of the thumb (via the ulnar sesamoid) and the extensor expansion.	Adduction of the thumb at the CMC and MCP joints.	Deep branch of the ulnar nerve.	Deep palmar arch (radial artery).

Hip & gluteal region 7

Muscle	Origin	Insertion	Action	Innervation	Blood supply
Psoas major	Bodies of T12–L5 and the intervening discs; transverse processes of L1–L5.	Lesser trochanter of the femur (with iliacus).	Flexion of the hip; lateral flexion of the lumbar spine; flexion of the trunk.	Direct branches from the anterior rami of the lumbar spinal nerves.	Lumbar arteries; iliolumbar artery; external iliac and femoral branches.
Iliacus	Iliac fossa, iliac crest, ala of the sacrum and the anterior sacroiliac ligaments.	Lesser trochanter of the femur (via the psoas tendon) and the shaft below it.	Flexion of the hip; flexion of the trunk on the thigh.	Femoral nerve.	Iliac branch of the iliolumbar artery; deep circumflex iliac artery; obturator artery.
Gluteus maximus	Outer surface of the ilium posterior to the posterior gluteal line, dorsal surface of the sacrum and coccyx, sacrotuberous ligament and thoracolumbar fascia.	Most fibres: iliotibial tract (to the lateral condyle of the tibia). Deep inferior fibres: gluteal tuberosity of the femur.	Extension (from the flexed position) and lateral rotation of the hip; steadies the femur and pelvis; assists knee stability through the iliotibial tract.	Inferior gluteal nerve (sacral plexus).	Inferior and superior gluteal arteries (internal iliac); first perforating artery (profunda femoris).
Gluteus medius	External surface of the ilium between the anterior and posterior gluteal lines.	Lateral surface of the greater trochanter of the femur.	Abduction and medial rotation of the thigh; stabilises the pelvis on the stance limb.	Superior gluteal nerve.	Superior gluteal artery (deep branch).
Gluteus minimus	External surface of the ilium between the anterior and inferior gluteal lines.	Anterior surface of the greater trochanter of the femur.	Abduction and medial rotation of the thigh; pelvic stabilisation in single-leg stance.	Superior gluteal nerve.	Superior gluteal artery (deep branch).
Tensor fasciae latae	Anterior superior iliac spine and the anterior part of the outer lip of the iliac crest.	Iliotibial tract, and through it the lateral condyle of the tibia (Gerdy's tubercle).	Flexion, abduction and medial rotation of the hip; tensing of the fascia lata to stabilise the knee.	Superior gluteal nerve.	Superior gluteal artery and the ascending branch of the lateral circumflex femoral artery.
Piriformis	Anterior surface of the sacrum (S2–S4) and the sacrotuberous ligament.	Superior border of the greater trochanter of the femur.	Lateral rotation of the extended hip; abduction of the flexed hip.	Nerve to piriformis (anterior rami of S1–S2).	Superior and inferior gluteal arteries; lateral sacral and internal pudendal branches.

Thigh — anterior compartment 5

Muscle	Origin	Insertion	Action	Innervation	Blood supply
Sartorius	Anterior superior iliac spine.	Superior part of the medial surface of the tibia (pes anserinus).	Flexion, abduction and lateral rotation of the thigh; flexion of the leg at the knee.	Femoral nerve.	Muscular branches of the femoral artery (segmental); descending genicular artery.
Rectus femoris	Straight head: anterior inferior iliac spine. Reflected head: ilium above the acetabulum.	Base of the patella (via the quadriceps tendon), then the tibial tuberosity via the patellar ligament.	Extension of the knee; flexion of the hip.	Femoral nerve.	Descending branch of the lateral circumflex femoral artery.
Vastus lateralis	Greater trochanter, intertrochanteric line, gluteal tuberosity and the lateral lip of the linea aspera of the femur.	Lateral border of the patella and the quadriceps tendon, then the tibial tuberosity via the patellar ligament.	Extension of the leg at the knee.	Femoral nerve.	Descending branch of the lateral circumflex femoral artery; perforating branches of the profunda femoris.
Vastus medialis	Intertrochanteric line, medial lip of the linea aspera, medial supracondylar line and the adductor tendons.	Medial border of the patella and the quadriceps tendon, then the tibial tuberosity via the patellar ligament.	Extension of the leg at the knee; medial stabilisation of the patella.	Femoral nerve.	Femoral and profunda femoris arteries; descending genicular artery.
Vastus intermedius	Anterior and lateral surfaces of the femoral shaft (upper two-thirds).	Deep surface of the quadriceps tendon and the base of the patella, then the tibial tuberosity via the patellar ligament.	Extension of the leg at the knee.	Femoral nerve.	Lateral circumflex femoral artery and profunda femoris branches.

Thigh — medial compartment 5

Muscle	Origin	Insertion	Action	Innervation	Blood supply
Pectineus	Pecten pubis (superior ramus of the pubis).	Pectineal line of the femur, below the lesser trochanter.	Adduction and flexion of the thigh at the hip.	Femoral nerve; sometimes also the obturator or accessory obturator nerve.	Medial circumflex femoral artery and obturator artery.
Adductor longus	Body of the pubis, inferior to the pubic crest.	Middle third of the linea aspera of the femur.	Adduction of the thigh; assists flexion.	Obturator nerve (anterior division).	Profunda femoris artery and medial circumflex femoral artery; obturator artery.
Adductor brevis	Body and inferior ramus of the pubis.	Pectineal line and the proximal part of the linea aspera.	Adduction and some flexion of the thigh.	Obturator nerve (anterior division).	Profunda femoris, medial circumflex femoral and obturator arteries.
Adductor magnus	Adductor part: inferior ramus of the pubis and ramus of the ischium. Hamstring part: ischial tuberosity.	Adductor part: gluteal tuberosity, linea aspera and medial supracondylar line. Hamstring part: adductor tubercle of the femur.	Adduction of the thigh; adductor part flexes and hamstring part extends the hip.	Adductor part: obturator nerve (posterior division). Hamstring part: tibial division of the sciatic nerve.	Profunda femoris artery and its perforating branches; obturator artery; femoral artery (descending genicular).
Gracilis	Body and inferior ramus of the pubis.	Superior part of the medial surface of the tibia (pes anserinus).	Adduction of the thigh; flexion and medial rotation of the leg at the knee.	Obturator nerve (anterior division).	Medial circumflex femoral artery and branches of the profunda femoris (main pedicle); descending genicular branches distally.

Thigh — posterior compartment 3

Muscle	Origin	Insertion	Action	Innervation	Blood supply
Biceps femoris	Long head: ischial tuberosity (and sacrotuberous ligament). Short head: lateral lip of the linea aspera and the lateral supracondylar line.	Lateral side of the head of the fibula (and the lateral tibial condyle).	Flexion of the knee; lateral rotation of the flexed knee; extension of the hip (long head).	Long head: tibial division of the sciatic nerve. Short head: common fibular division.	Perforating branches of the profunda femoris; inferior gluteal artery; superior lateral genicular artery.
Semitendinosus	Ischial tuberosity (inferomedial impression, common tendon with the long head of biceps femoris).	Superior part of the medial surface of the tibia (pes anserinus).	Extension of the thigh; flexion of the leg; medial rotation of the flexed knee.	Tibial division of the sciatic nerve.	Perforating branches of the profunda femoris; inferior gluteal artery; medial genicular arteries.
Semimembranosus	Ischial tuberosity (superolateral impression).	Posterior part of the medial condyle of the tibia; the reflected expansion forms the oblique popliteal ligament.	Extension of the thigh; flexion of the leg; medial rotation of the flexed knee.	Tibial division of the sciatic nerve.	Perforating branches of the profunda femoris; inferior gluteal artery; popliteal artery (medial genicular branches).

Leg — anterior compartment 3

Muscle	Origin	Insertion	Action	Innervation	Blood supply
Tibialis anterior	Lateral condyle and the upper half of the lateral surface of the tibia; interosseous membrane.	Medial and inferior surfaces of the medial cuneiform and the base of the 1st metatarsal.	Dorsiflexion of the ankle and inversion of the foot.	Deep fibular (peroneal) nerve.	Anterior tibial artery.
Extensor hallucis longus	Middle part of the anterior surface of the fibula and the interosseous membrane.	Dorsal aspect of the base of the distal phalanx of the great toe.	Extension of the hallux; dorsiflexion of the ankle.	Deep fibular nerve.	Anterior tibial artery.
Extensor digitorum longus	Lateral condyle of the tibia, upper three-quarters of the anterior surface of the fibula and the interosseous membrane.	Middle and distal phalanges of the lateral four toes (via the extensor expansions).	Extension of the lateral four toes; dorsiflexion of the ankle.	Deep fibular nerve.	Anterior tibial artery.

Leg — lateral compartment 2

Muscle	Origin	Insertion	Action	Innervation	Blood supply
Fibularis longus	Head and upper two-thirds of the lateral surface of the fibula.	Plantar surfaces of the base of the 1st metatarsal and the medial cuneiform.	Eversion of the foot and plantarflexion of the ankle; supports the arches.	Superficial fibular (peroneal) nerve.	Fibular artery and anterior tibial artery (branches through the intermuscular septa).
Fibularis brevis	Lower two-thirds of the lateral surface of the fibula.	Tuberosity on the lateral side of the base of the 5th metatarsal.	Eversion of the foot; plantarflexion of the ankle.	Superficial fibular nerve.	Fibular artery.

Leg — posterior compartment 7

Muscle	Origin	Insertion	Action	Innervation	Blood supply
Gastrocnemius	Medial head: popliteal surface of the femur above the medial condyle. Lateral head: lateral surface of the lateral femoral condyle.	Posterior surface of the calcaneus via the calcaneal tendon.	Plantarflexion of the ankle when the knee is extended; flexion of the knee; raises the heel during walking.	Tibial nerve.	Sural arteries (from the popliteal artery).
Soleus	Posterior aspect of the head and upper quarter of the fibula, the soleal line and medial border of the tibia, and the tendinous arch between them.	Posterior surface of the calcaneus via the calcaneal tendon.	Plantarflexion of the ankle; steadies the leg on the foot in standing.	Tibial nerve.	Posterior tibial, fibular and sural arteries.
Plantaris	Inferior end of the lateral supracondylar line of the femur and the oblique popliteal ligament.	Posterior surface of the calcaneus (medial to, or with, the calcaneal tendon).	Weak plantarflexion of the ankle and flexion of the knee.	Tibial nerve.	Sural arteries (popliteal artery).
Popliteus	Lateral surface of the lateral femoral condyle (popliteal groove) and the lateral meniscus.	Posterior surface of the tibia, above the soleal line.	Lateral rotation of the femur on the fixed tibia (unlocking the knee); weak knee flexion.	Tibial nerve.	Inferior medial and lateral genicular arteries; posterior tibial artery (muscular and recurrent branches).
Tibialis posterior	Interosseous membrane and the posterior surfaces of the tibia (below the soleal line) and fibula.	Tuberosity of the navicular, with slips to the cuneiforms, cuboid, sustentaculum tali and the bases of metatarsals 2–4.	Inversion of the foot; plantarflexion of the ankle; support of the medial arch.	Tibial nerve.	Posterior tibial artery and fibular artery.
Flexor digitorum longus	Medial part of the posterior surface of the tibia, below the soleal line.	Plantar bases of the distal phalanges of the lateral four toes.	Flexion of toes 2–5; plantarflexion of the ankle; inversion of the foot.	Tibial nerve.	Posterior tibial artery.
Flexor hallucis longus	Inferior two-thirds of the posterior surface of the fibula and the interosseous membrane.	Plantar base of the distal phalanx of the great toe.	Flexion of the hallux; plantarflexion of the ankle; supports the medial arch.	Tibial nerve.	Fibular artery.

Muscles of respiration 1

Muscle	Origin	Insertion	Action	Innervation	Blood supply
Diaphragm	Xiphoid process (sternal part); inner surfaces of the lower six costal cartilages and ribs 7–12 (costal part); L1–L3 bodies via the right crus, L1–L2 via the left crus, and the medial and lateral arcuate ligaments (lumbar part).	Central tendon.	Contraction flattens and lowers the domes, enlarging the vertical (and, via the lower ribs, transverse) dimensions of the thorax for inspiration.	Motor: phrenic nerves (C3–C5), each supplying its own half. Sensory: central part by the phrenic nerves; periphery by the lower six intercostal nerves (T7–T11) and subcostal nerve (T12).	Superior surface: pericardiacophrenic and musculophrenic arteries (internal thoracic) and superior phrenic arteries (thoracic aorta).…

Large intestine 1

Muscle	Origin	Insertion	Action	Innervation	Blood supply
Internal anal sphincter	—	—	—	Sympathetic (L1–L2, via the hypogastric plexuses) contracts it. Parasympathetic (S2–S4, pelvic splanchnic nerves) and enteric inhibitory neurons relax it.	—

Lower urinary tract 3

Muscle	Origin	Insertion	Action	Innervation	Blood supply
Detrusor muscle	—	—	—	Parasympathetic pelvic splanchnic nerves S2–S4 (contraction, M3); sympathetic hypogastric nerve T11–L2 (relaxation, β3).	—
Internal urethral sphincter	—	—	—	Sympathetic T11–L2 via the hypogastric nerve and inferior hypogastric plexus (α1-adrenoceptors).	—
External urethral sphincter	—	—	—	Pudendal nerve (perineal branch), S2–S4 — somatic, nicotinic cholinergic.	—

Hair & nails 1

Muscle	Origin	Insertion	Action	Innervation	Blood supply
Arrector pili muscle	Papillary layer of the dermis (just beneath the epidermis).	Connective tissue sheath of the hair follicle at the bulge, below the sebaceous gland.	Pulls the hair erect (piloerection), dimples the skin and compresses the sebaceous gland.	Sympathetic postganglionic adrenergic fibres (noradrenaline on α1-adrenoceptors).	—