Which muscle originates from spinous processes T11-L2?

• A. Serratus posterior inferior
• B. Splenius capitis
• C. Splenius cervicis
• D. Serratus anterior

Answer: (A)

This question tests recognizing muscle origins along the spine and how that matches the muscle’s role. The muscle that originates from the spinous processes of T11 through L2 is the serratus posterior inferior. From there, its fibers run laterally to the lower ribs, helping depress the ribs during expiration.

The other muscles don’t fit that origin pattern: the splenius capitis starts from the lower part of the nuchal ligament and spinous processes of C7–T3, attaching to the skull and upper cervical vertebrae; the splenius cervicis originates from spinous processes of T3–T6 and attaches to cervical vertebrae; and serratus anterior arises from the upper eight or nine ribs and inserts on the anterior surface of the scapula, not from the spinous processes.