Where is lat muscle

It may be difficult to tell whether the pain is located in the latissimus dorsi or other muscles in the shoulders or back. In some cases, the pain will occur without warning, and it can be felt in surrounding muscles.

This pain often worsens when the person extends their hands to the front, raises their hands above their head, or throws an object. Consult a doctor when the source of back pain cannot be identified, or if it is accompanied by:. It is possible to tear the latissimus dorsi, and athletes are at particular risk. Some athletes most likely to injure this muscle include:. Certain exercises can alleviate pain associated with the latissimus dorsi and strengthen the muscle to prevent further injury.

It is essential that a person consult an expert, such as a doctor or personal trainer, to ensure that the exercises are right for them and that they are using correct form. The following two exercises can reduce latissimus dorsi pain. A doctor can recommend how often a person should perform these exercises. Never continue an exercise that is painful or too uncomfortable:. The latissimus dorsi is one of the largest muscles in the back.

It can be injured with overuse, or when a person does not use correct form while exercising. J Orthop. Jeno SH, Varacallo M. Anatomy, back, latissimus dorsi. StatPearls [Internet]. Updated April 5, Lung K, Lui F. Anatomy, Thorax, long thoracic nerve. Updated December 9, Your Privacy Rights.

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Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. Latissimus Dorsi. GP Notebook website. Muscles Testing and Function with Posture and Pain. Related Articles. The Anatomy of the Trapezius Muscle. It descends between teres minor and major, dividing the wedge-shaped interval between them and the humerus into triangular and quadrangular spaces. The lateral head of the Triceps brachii, one of three heads of the muscle, originates from the humerus, superior to the radial groove to insert on the olecranon process.

Bored by anatomy? Try this. Learn anatomy faster and remember everything you learn. Adducts the arm at the shoulder glenohumeral joint.

Nerves to the muscle :. Nerve roots :.