Which statement describes the posterior thoracolumbar fascia's relation to the latissimus dorsi?

Which statement describes the posterior thoracolumbar fascia's relation to the latissimus dorsi?

• A. Lies deep to latissimus dorsi
• B. Overlie latissimus dorsi
• C. Surrounds latissimus dorsi
• D. Is anterior to latissimus dorsi

Answer: (B)

The posterior thoracolumbar fascia sits on top of the latissimus dorsi in the back, so the latissimus dorsi lies beneath it. This fascia is a broad sheet that provides the proximal attachment for the latissimus dorsi and forms the posterior boundary of that region. Because the muscle originates from this fascia and then runs laterally to insert on the humerus, the fascia overprints the muscle rather than being under or all around it. So the correct understanding is that the posterior thoracolumbar fascia overlies the latissimus dorsi.

The posterior thoracolumbar fascia sits on top of the latissimus dorsi in the back, so the latissimus dorsi lies beneath it. This fascia is a broad sheet that provides the proximal attachment for the latissimus dorsi and forms the posterior boundary of that region. Because the muscle originates from this fascia and then runs laterally to insert on the humerus, the fascia overprints the muscle rather than being under or all around it. So the correct understanding is that the posterior thoracolumbar fascia overlies the latissimus dorsi.