Muscle Anatomy of the Longissimus Capitis
Origin: By tendons from the posterior surfaces of the transverse processes of T1 to T5 and the articular processes of C4 to C7
Insertion: Posterior margin of the mastoid process of the occipital bone
Actions: Extension of the head and cervical spine
Innervation: Dorsal primary rami of C4 to T5
Blood Supply: Descending branches of the occipital artery
Muscle Anatomy: Longissimus Capitis Actions
Primary Actions of the Longissimus Capitis
1. Extension of the head and cervical spine when acting bilaterally
Agonists:
- Spinalis Capitis
- Splenius Capitis
- Semispinalis Capitis
- Sternocleidomastoid (posterior fibers)
Antagonists:
- Longus Capitis
- Sternocleidomastoid (anterior fibers)
Secondary Actions of the Longissimus Capitis:
1. Assists with ipsilateral rotation of the cervical spine and head when acting unilaterally
Agonists:
- Rectus capitis posterior major
- Obliquus capitis inferior
Antagonists: Same muscles on contralateral side
- Rectus capitis posterior major
- Obliquus capitis inferior
Information about cause and effect of Longissimus Capitis pain:
Longissimus Capitis Muscle: Head, Ear, Eye and Neck Pain
Recommended Anatomy Books:
Anatomy Coloring Book
The Anatomy Coloring Book is one of the best study and reference books for beginning anatomy students. The diagrams are clearly labeled and allow you to see the relationship and placement of the various structures of the body. You will also be surprised how the act of coloring will help with recall. But this is not just a beginners book, it is also great for practitioners and therapists to have on hand to use with clients and patients to use as a visual reference.
Human Muscle Anatomy
The Trail Guide To The Body is another excellent book to help you learn the musculature of the human body. Though the book is geared toward massage therapists and physical therapist assistants, the book with its illustrations and text helps anyone gain a thorough understanding of the human musculoskeletal system and movement. I highly recommend this book for anyone studying anatomy and believe that MTs, PTAs, and teachers of body movements should have this book in their possession. I also highly recommend this book for the lay person who wants to gain understanding of the muscle, skeletal system and how our bodies move. This book will not disappoint!
Basic Clinical Massage Therapy
Out of the scores of books in my office Basic Clinical Massage Therapy is by far the most referenced book in my library. The musculoskeletal system is overlaid on human models allowing you to learn the precise location, origin and insertions of each muscle. The models are pictured in various poses throughout the book which also helps you visualize muscles in motion and their actions relationship with the skeletal structure and other muscles. Though it is written for massage therapists, it is an excellent book for anyone who wants to learn about the muscular system. MT’s will benefit from recommended treatments for each muscle.
Muscle Anatomy Flashcards
Musculoskeletal Anatomy Flashcards Are you a student or professional therapist who needs to brush up on the musculoskeletal system? Dr. Joseph E. Muscolino DC has developed a comprehensive set of flashcards that will help develop a mind’s picture of exactly where the muscles lie under the skin. A highly recommended study aid for students. Great for non students who want an easy comprehensive anatomy guide.
