College of Massage Therapists of British Columbia (CMTBC) Practice Exam

Which structure provides attachment points for multiple back muscles?

1. spinous processes

2. transverse processes

3. vertebral bodies

4. intervertebral discs

The correct answer is: spinous processes

The spinous processes are the prominent bony projections that extend from the posterior aspect of the vertebrae. They serve as important attachment points for various muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the back. The attachment of muscles to these processes plays a crucial role in stabilizing the spine, facilitating movement, and maintaining posture. Key back muscles, such as the trapezius, latissimus dorsi, and various muscles of the erector spinae group, attach to the spinous processes. This anatomical arrangement allows for coordinated movements and provides leverage for muscle action during activities that involve bending, lifting, and twisting. While the transverse processes also serve as attachment points for certain muscles and ligaments, their primary function is different compared to the spinous processes, as they are more involved in providing lateral stability and acting as levers for the muscles that facilitate rotation and side bending. The vertebral bodies primarily support weight and house the spinal cord, and intervertebral discs primarily act as shock absorbers without providing direct attachment for back muscles. Therefore, the spinous processes are the most significant structures in this context for muscle attachment in the back.