What is latissimus?

Latissimus dorsi is a large, flat muscle that covers the lower back and sides of the torso. It is also known as the "lats" and is one of the largest muscles in the body. The latissimus dorsi muscle originates from the thoracic and lumbar vertebrae, and inserts into the humerus bone in the upper arm.

The latissimus dorsi muscle has a number of important functions, including:

* Adduction of the arm: This means pulling the arm towards the body.

* Extension of the arm: This means straightening the arm at the elbow joint.

* Internal rotation of the arm: This means rotating the arm so that the palm faces inward.

* Depression of the shoulder: This means lowering the shoulder joint.

The latissimus dorsi muscle is innervated by the thoracodorsal nerve. This nerve arises from the spinal cord at the level of the fifth to eighth thoracic vertebrae.

The latissimus dorsi muscle is a powerful muscle that is involved in a variety of movements. It is an important muscle for athletes, as it is used in many sports activities, such as swimming, rowing, and weightlifting.