The muscles of the neck
M. Semispinalis Capitis
Origin: Transverse processes of the vertebrae Th7–C5 (7th thoracic vertebra to 5th cervical vertebra)
Insertion: Head , occipital bone.
Function: Extension of the neck. Also rotation of the neck.
Splenius capitis
Origin: C4-Th3 spinous processes (cervicalspine
. Insertion: Head, posteriorly and laterally (temporal and occipital bones). Cervical spine:
. Function: Extension of the head and neck. See image below.
Splenius cervicis
Origin: Thoracic vertebrae T3–T6
Insertion: Cervical vertebrae C3–C4
Function: Extension and rotation of the head and neck.
M Levator Scapulae
Origin: Transversal processes C1–C4
Insertion: Medial upper corner of the scapula
Function: Lifts the shoulder girdle
M. Sternocleidomastoid
Origin: Sternum,clavicle
Insertion: Temporal bone behind/below the ear.
Function: Flexion of the cervical spine (when both muscles contract), rotation when one side contracts. See image below.
Medial scalene muscle
Origin: Transverse processes of cervical vertebrae C1–C6
Insertion: First rib
Function: Lateral flexion of the neck/cervical spine and elevation of the first rib.
Works in conjunction with the posterior and anterior scalene muscles, which have similar anatomy. Image to h