Pinpoint
Muscles/Chest

Chest

Posterior intercostal arteries

pos-TEER-ee-or in-ter-KOS-tal ar-TEER-eez

Note: This is a vascular structure, not a muscle. Posterior intercostal arteries supply blood to intercostal muscles, ribs, and pleura, supporting chest wall endurance in breathing and core work. Vital for recovery in high-rep chest training.

Open in 3D Viewer

Common Pain & Injury

N/A - arterial; pain from occlusion mimics muscle strain. See doctor for chest pain.

Anatomy & Function

Origin

Thoracic aorta

Insertion

Chest wall structures

Innervation

N/A

Trigger Points

N/A

Common Conditions

Intercostal artery aneurysmThoracic outlet syndrome

Anatomical Parts

Posterior intercostal arteriesPosterior intercostal arteries

FAQ

What are posterior intercostal arteries?

Blood vessels supplying back of rib cage and intercostals.

Related Chest Muscles

Abdominal part of left pectoralis major
The abdominal part of the left pectoralis major is the lower portion of the left chest's primary pushing muscle, attaching from the sternum down to the ribs near the abdomen. It drives shoulder adduction and flexion, crucial for powerful presses like bench variations and dips. Fitness enthusiasts target it for that defined lower chest line in bodybuilding.
Abdominal part of right pectoralis major
The abdominal part of the right pectoralis major forms the lower section of the right chest's main power muscle, spanning from the sternum to the abdominal ribs. It excels in adduction and flexion for presses and flyes, key for balanced chest development. Gym-goers love it for carving out that teardrop lower chest aesthetic.
Anterior papillary muscle of right ventricle
This cardiac muscle inside the right ventricle anchors mitral valve leaflets for proper heart pumping. Not skeletal, but endurance training optimizes heart efficiency. Matters for cardio performance indirectly.
Anterolateral head of lateral papillary muscle of left ventricle
Specialized head of left heart papillary muscle securing mitral valve for left ventricle ejection. Critical for oxygenated blood flow. Athletes benefit from cardiac hypertrophy here.
External intercostal muscle
External intercostals are thin muscles between the ribs that elevate them during inhalation, aiding deep breathing for core stability in lifts. They're vital for endurance athletes needing efficient oxygen uptake. Fitness training enhances respiratory muscle power.
Innermost intercostal muscle
Innermost intercostals are deep rib muscles aiding forced expiration like coughing. Support breathing in high-intensity training.
Internal intercostal muscle
Internal intercostals between ribs assist expiration and stabilize chest in lifts.
Lateral papillary muscle of left ventricle
Papillary muscle in heart's left ventricle anchors mitral valve to prevent backflow. Endurance training strengthens indirectly.

Chest Pain Guide

Common causes and relief

Activities & Sports

See which activities use Posterior intercostal arteries

Pinpoint·Interactive 3D Anatomy & Exercise Guide