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Quizzes > Health & Medicine > Human Anatomy & Medicine

Back Muscles Quiz: Challenge Your Anatomy Skills

Think you can ace this muscles of the back quiz? Start now!

Difficulty: Moderate
2-5mins
Learning OutcomesCheat Sheet
Paper art illustration for back muscles quiz on a golden yellow background

This back muscles quiz helps you practice identifying and naming major muscles in 10 quick questions so you can see your score and spot gaps before an exam. For more practice, try labeling the back on a diagram or explore the deep layer .

Which superficial back muscle is primarily responsible for shoulder adduction and internal rotation?
Latissimus dorsi
Teres minor
Trapezius
Rhomboid major
The latissimus dorsi is a broad, flat muscle covering the lower back and inserts on the intertubercular sulcus of the humerus. It produces shoulder extension, adduction, and medial rotation. This muscle is active during movements like climbing and swimming. See .
Which muscle elevates the scapula when contracted?
Levator scapulae
Serratus anterior
Levator ani
Rhomboid major
The levator scapulae originates from the transverse processes of C1 - C4 and inserts on the superior angle of the scapula. Its primary action is to elevate the scapula and tilt its glenoid cavity inferiorly. It also assists with downward rotation of the scapula. See .
Which muscle retracts the scapula towards the vertebral column?
Serratus posterior superior
Rhomboid major
Trapezius
Latissimus dorsi
The rhomboid major attaches from the spinous processes of T2 - T5 to the medial border of the scapula. When it contracts, it retracts and elevates the scapula. It also assists with downward rotation of the scapula. See .
Which cranial nerve innervates the trapezius muscle?
Spinal accessory nerve (CN XI)
Dorsal scapular nerve
Suprascapular nerve
Thoracodorsal nerve
The trapezius is innervated by the spinal accessory nerve (cranial nerve XI) for motor function, with cervical spinal nerves C3 - C4 providing proprioceptive fibers. Damage to the accessory nerve impairs shoulder elevation and scapular movement. See .
What is the primary action of the erector spinae muscle group?
Rotation of the vertebral column
Abduction of the vertebral column
Flexion of the vertebral column
Extension of the vertebral column
The erector spinae is a group of muscles and tendons that run more than the length of the vertebral column. Its main function is to extend and laterally flex the spine. It also helps maintain posture and control flexion. See .
Which of the following muscles is not part of the erector spinae group?
Iliocostalis
Multifidus
Longissimus
Spinalis
The erector spinae group consists of three columns: iliocostalis, longissimus, and spinalis. Multifidus lies deep to these muscles and is part of the transversospinalis group. Multifidus stabilizes adjacent vertebrae rather than extending the spine. See .
Which muscle is commonly divided into upper, middle, and lower fibers and contributes to various scapular movements?
Trapezius
Latissimus dorsi
Serratus posterior superior
Rhomboid major
The trapezius has three functional regions: the upper fibers elevate the scapula, the middle fibers retract it, and the lower fibers depress and assist in upward rotation. This subdivision allows complex scapular control. See .
The rhomboid minor muscle attaches to which vertebral levels?
C7 - T1
C1 - C4
C4 - C5
T2 - T5
Rhomboid minor originates from the nuchal ligament and the spinous processes of C7 - T1 and inserts on the medial border of the scapula at the level of the scapular spine. It works with rhomboid major to retract the scapula. See .
On which part of the humerus does the latissimus dorsi muscle insert?
Floor of the intertubercular sulcus
Lesser tubercle
Greater tubercle
Deltoid tuberosity
The latissimus dorsi converges to a tendon that inserts into the floor of the intertubercular sulcus of the humerus. This attachment allows it to extend, adduct, and medially rotate the humerus. See .
Which back muscle serves as an accessory muscle of respiration by elevating the ribs?
Serratus posterior superior
Serratus posterior inferior
Levator scapulae
Quadratus lumborum
The serratus posterior superior originates from the nuchal ligament and spinous processes of C7 - T3 and inserts on ribs 2 - 5. It elevates the ribs during forced inspiration, assisting breathing. See .
Which nerve provides motor innervation to the latissimus dorsi muscle?
Dorsal scapular nerve
Thoracodorsal nerve
Suprascapular nerve
Spinal accessory nerve
The thoracodorsal nerve, a branch of the posterior cord of the brachial plexus (C6 - C8), innervates the latissimus dorsi. Injury to this nerve impairs shoulder extension, adduction, and internal rotation. See .
The infraspinatus muscle is innervated by which nerve?
Dorsal scapular nerve
Suprascapular nerve
Axillary nerve
Subscapular nerve
The suprascapular nerve (C5 - C6) arises from the upper trunk of the brachial plexus and innervates both supraspinatus and infraspinatus muscles, facilitating external rotation of the shoulder. See .
Which nerve innervates the teres minor muscle?
Suprascapular nerve
Thoracodorsal nerve
Axillary nerve
Radial nerve
The axillary nerve (C5 - C6) passes through the quadrangular space to supply the deltoid and teres minor muscles, enabling shoulder abduction and external rotation. See .
The dorsal scapular artery primarily supplies which back muscle?
Latissimus dorsi
Trapezius
Rhomboid major
Erector spinae
The dorsal scapular artery, often a branch of the transverse cervical artery, runs along the medial border of the scapula to supply rhomboid major, rhomboid minor, and levator scapulae. See .
Which muscle group is located in the groove between the spinous processes and the angles of the ribs?
Semispinalis
Splenius capitis
Multifidus
Iliocostalis
Iliocostalis is the most lateral column of the erector spinae group, running from the sacrum and iliac crest to the angles of the ribs and cervical transverse processes. It supports posture and extends and laterally flexes the spine. See .
The quadratus lumborum originates from which structure?
Posterior sacrum
Transverse processes of L1 - L4
Iliac crest and iliolumbar ligament
Spinous processes of T12 - L4
Quadratus lumborum originates from the posterior border of the iliac crest and the iliolumbar ligament, inserting on the 12th rib and transverse processes of L1 - L4. It stabilizes the 12th rib and assists lateral flexion of the trunk. See .
Which intrinsic back muscle has its strongest fibers in the lumbar region, providing stabilization during movement?
Semispinalis
Rotatores
Splenius cervicis
Multifidus
Multifidus spans from the sacrum to the cervical region, with the thickest fibers in the lumbar area. It stabilizes vertebrae during flexion, extension, and rotation. This deep muscle is part of the transversospinalis group. See .
The erector spinae group is composed of which three muscle columns?
Splenius, semispinalis, rotatores
Iliocostalis, longissimus, spinalis
Multifidus, longissimus, iliocostalis
Iliocostalis, semispinalis, multifidus
The erector spinae group consists of three muscle columns running paraspinally: iliocostalis (lateral), longissimus (intermediate), and spinalis (medial). They work together to extend and laterally flex the vertebral column. See .
Which muscle, when contracted unilaterally, rotates the head to the same side?
Levator scapulae
Splenius capitis
Semispinalis capitis
Sternocleidomastoid
Splenius capitis originates from the nuchal ligament and spinous processes of C7 - T3 and inserts on the mastoid process and occipital bone. Unilateral contraction rotates and laterally flexes the head to the same side. See .
Which muscle's lower fibers assist in upward rotation of the scapula?
Rhomboid major
Lower fibers of trapezius
Levator scapulae
Serratus posterior superior
The lower fibers of trapezius pull the scapula downward and medially, assisting the upper fibers and serratus anterior in upward rotation during overhead elevation of the arm. This combined action is essential for full abduction. See .
Which muscle of the transversospinalis group spans four to six vertebral segments and is most prominent in the thoracic region?
Splenius cervicis
Rotatores
Semispinalis
Multifidus
Semispinalis spans from the transverse processes to the spinous processes four to six levels above its origin. The thoracic portion is largest in the thoracic region and helps extend and rotate the vertebral column. See .
The intrinsic back muscles receive innervation from which nerve branches?
Ventral rami of spinal nerves
Accessory nerve
Dorsal rami of spinal nerves
Phrenic nerve
Intrinsic (deep) back muscles are innervated by the dorsal rami of the spinal nerves, which provide motor and sensory fibers. Ventral rami innervate limb and body wall muscles. See .
What is the bilateral action of the quadratus lumborum muscle?
Trunk flexion
Unilateral lateral flexion only
Trunk extension and stabilization
Rib depression
When both sides of quadratus lumborum contract, they extend and stabilize the lumbar spine and fix the 12th rib during forced expiration. Unilateral contraction causes lateral flexion. See .
The teres major muscle inserts on which structure of the humerus?
Deltoid tuberosity
Crest of the lesser tubercle
Lateral epicondyle
Greater tubercle
Teres major inserts on the medial lip of the intertubercular sulcus (crest of the lesser tubercle) of the humerus. It assists in adduction and medial rotation of the arm. See .
Which portion of the erector spinae is located most laterally in the lumbar region?
Iliocostalis lumborum
Multifidus
Spinalis thoracis
Longissimus thoracis
Iliocostalis lumborum is the lateral column of the erector spinae in the lumbar region, attaching from the iliac crest to the lower ribs. It laterally flexes and extends the spine. See .
Which transversospinalis muscle has the longest fibers, spanning from transverse processes to the occipital bone?
Semispinalis cervicis
Rotatores
Multifidus
Semispinalis capitis
Semispinalis capitis originates from transverse processes of C7 - T6 and inserts on the area between the superior and inferior nuchal lines of the occipital bone. It extends and rotates the head. See .
Which muscle inserts on the transverse processes of C1 - C3 and assists with head rotation and extension?
Splenius cervicis
Splenius capitis
Obliquus capitis superior
Levator scapulae
Splenius cervicis originates from spinous processes of T3 - T6 and inserts on transverse processes of C1 - C3. Unilateral contraction rotates the neck to the same side and bilateral contraction extends the neck. See .
Which muscle originates from the spinous processes of T2 - T5 and inserts on the spine of the scapula?
Rhomboid major
Rhomboid minor
Levator scapulae
Trapezius
Rhomboid major arises from the spinous processes of T2 - T5 and attaches along the medial border of the scapula below the base of the spine, retracting and elevating the scapula. See .
The dorsal scapular nerve arises from which root of the brachial plexus?
T1
C5
C8
C3
The dorsal scapular nerve branches from the C5 root of the brachial plexus and innervates levator scapulae, rhomboid major, and rhomboid minor. Injury causes weakness in scapular retraction. See .
Which arteries primarily supply the erector spinae muscles in the thoracic region?
Dorsal scapular artery
Thoracodorsal artery
Subclavian artery
Posterior intercostal arteries
The posterior intercostal arteries, branches of the thoracic aorta, give off dorsal branches that supply the erector spinae and adjacent deep back muscles in the thoracic region. See .
Which muscle forms the superior boundary of the suboccipital triangle?
Splenius capitis
Rectus capitis posterior major
Obliquus capitis inferior
Obliquus capitis superior
Obliquus capitis superior originates from the transverse process of C1 and inserts on the occipital bone, forming the superior border of the suboccipital triangle. It aids in head extension and lateral flexion. See .
Which muscle forms the medial boundary of the suboccipital triangle?
Obliquus capitis inferior
Semispinalis capitis
Obliquus capitis superior
Rectus capitis posterior major
Rectus capitis posterior major originates on the spinous process of C2 and inserts on the inferior nuchal line, forming the medial border of the suboccipital triangle. It extends and rotates the head. See .
Which intrinsic back muscles lie between adjacent spinous processes throughout the vertebral column?
Interspinales
Rotatores
Multifidus
Intertransversarii
Interspinales muscles are small, paired muscles between the spinous processes of adjacent vertebrae, assisting in slight extension and proprioception. They are innervated by dorsal rami. See .
Which of the following muscles is NOT innervated by the suboccipital nerve?
Obliquus capitis superior
Splenius capitis
Rectus capitis posterior major
Obliquus capitis inferior
The suboccipital nerve (dorsal ramus of C1) innervates the four suboccipital muscles: rectus capitis posterior major and minor, obliquus capitis superior and inferior. Splenius capitis is innervated by the dorsal rami of C3 - C4, not the suboccipital nerve. See .
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Study Outcomes

  1. Identify Major Back Muscles -

    Use the back muscles quiz to accurately name and locate key superficial muscles such as the trapezius, latissimus dorsi, and rhomboids.

  2. Distinguish Superficial and Deep Layers -

    Analyze differences between superficial and deep muscles of the back quiz, recognizing how each layer contributes to posture and movement.

  3. Recall Anatomical Landmarks -

    Memorize the origin and insertion points of major back muscles, improving your ability to identify them in varied quiz scenarios.

  4. Analyze Functional Roles -

    Understand the primary actions of each muscle, such as extension, rotation, and stabilization, and apply this knowledge in quiz questions.

  5. Apply Knowledge Under Pressure -

    Strengthen quick-recall skills by answering 10 random questions that challenge your understanding of muscles of the back quiz.

  6. Evaluate Your Mastery -

    Review your score and explanations after each attempt to pinpoint areas for improvement and solidify retention of back muscle anatomy.

Cheat Sheet

  1. Superficial Extrinsic Muscles -

    The superficial layer includes trapezius, latissimus dorsi, rhomboids, and levator scapulae, all originating from spinous processes and acting on the shoulder girdle (Gray's Anatomy). Use the mnemonic "T-R-L-S" (Traps, Rhomboids, Levator, Serratus) to recall muscle order from superior to inferior. Quiz takers often spot these in the back muscles quiz for their roles in scapular movement and posture.

  2. Erector Spinae (Intrinsic Layer) -

    The intrinsic erector spinae group - iliocostalis, longissimus, and spinalis - runs longitudinally along the vertebral column to extend and laterally flex the spine (Netter's Atlas of Human Anatomy). Remember "I Love Spines" to order them from lateral to medial. Strong erector spinae muscles are a staple in muscles of the back quiz questions on spinal extension mechanics.

  3. Transversospinalis Deep Stabilizers -

    This layer comprises semispinalis, multifidus, and rotatores, which originate on transverse processes and insert on superior spinous processes to control fine movements and segmental stability (Clinically Oriented Anatomy, Moore & Dalley). Tip: visualize the "stacked" diagonal fibers for rotation and proprioception. These often appear in detailed muscles of the back quiz questions on deep posterior anatomy.

  4. Neurovascular Supply -

    Intrinsic back muscles receive innervation from the dorsal rami of spinal nerves, while the trapezius is supplied by the accessory nerve (CN XI) (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons). Segmental blood supply arises from posterior intercostal and lumbar arteries. Quiz designers commonly test neurovascular supply in back muscle quizzes to assess identification skills.

  5. Functional Movements and Testing -

    Back muscle actions include extension (erector spinae), scapular retraction (rhomboids), and shoulder adduction (latissimus dorsi) as outlined by the American College of Sports Medicine. Practicing with trunk extension and scapular squeeze tests can reinforce muscle location and function. Applying this in a back muscle quiz helps integrate anatomy with movement patterns.

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