Levator Costarum Longus
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The levator costarum longus is the ‘long-reach rib lifter’ — instead of attaching to the rib directly below, it skips down to the second rib below, giving it a longer pull on the rib cage.
Function
Elevates the ribs during inspiration; assists with thoracic extension and slight lateral flexion of the vertebral column.
Origin
Transverse processes of the lower thoracic vertebrae, usually T7–T10.
Insertion
Superior borders and external surfaces of the ribs two levels below the vertebra of origin, between the tubercle and angle of the rib.
Innervation
Posterior rami of thoracic spinal nerves, mainly T7–T11.