11. Serratus Anterior

Origin: Lateral aspect of ribs 1-8

Insertion: Anterior surface of medial scapular border

Action:

• Protracts scapulae
• Assists in scapular stabilization

Innervation: Long thoracic nerve (C5/6/7)

Needling

Position: Prone with arm in a hammer lock – can use a small rolled-up towel under the shoulder

Palpation: Palpate this muscle between the latissimus dorsi and the abdominals along the midaxillary line

Technique: Lift the inferior angle and medial border of the scapula away from the ribcage and needle in a lateral medial direction using the anterior aspect of the medial scapular border as a bony backdrop

Caution: High – the lung field lies directly below this muscle